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RS. MARY(IFL0YD\ HAMILTON 



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SAVANNAH, QA. 
THE MORNING NEWS PRINT 

leoe 



The Family of General John Floyd of Virginia 



COL. JOHN FLOYD was killed by the Indians in 
1783. He was a Kcntuckian. His son John Floyd 
of Virginia, who married Letitia Preston, daughter 
of Col. William Preston of Virginia. Their children : 

1. Savanna Smith Floyd, born March 14th, 1805, died 

in 1806. 

2. John Floyd, born June 6th, 1806. 

3. George Rogers Clark Floyd, born Nov. ' 20, 1807, 

died in 1808. 

4. William Preston Floyd, born June 15th, 1809. 

5. George Floyd, born Sept. 13th, 1810. 

6. Benjamin Rush Floyd, born Dec. loth, 181 1. 

7. Letitia Preston Floyd, born Nov. 14th, 1814. 

8. Lavalette Madison Floyd, born Dec. i6th, 1816. 

9. Nannette Buchanan Floyd, born June 6th, 1819. 

10. Carolyn Patton Floyd, born Jan. 26th, 1822. 

11. Thomas Lewis Preston Floyd, born July i6th, 1824, 

died in 1824, 

12. Mary Morning Lewis, born March loth, 1827. 

Twelve childreji. 



\ 



Genealogy of the the Floyd Family of Northamp- 
ton County, Virginia 



THERE is a tradition in our family that the three 
brothers, viz. : William, Frederic and Charles, of 
Wales, who first settled in this country from Wales, 
were descended from Llewellyn Floyd the last of the 
Welch Kings, who surrendered his kingdom to the English 
at the time of the massacre of the Welch bards. I have no 
certain information as to the date of their settlement in 
the then, county of Accomac, Virginia, since divided into 
Accomac and Northampton counties ; but from the best 
information I can get, I should think, about the year 1675. 
Frederick married ; his wife died leaving a child. He was 
so much distressed that he went crazy and starved him- 
self and child to death. William Floyd, the son of one of 
the two remaining brothers, emigrated to Amhurst 
County, Virginia. We have no other certain information 
as to the names of the heirs of the original settlers, Wil- 
liam and Charles. 

Our next certain information is of William, who mar- 
ried Miss Estha Kendall of Northampton County, Vir- 
ginia, from whom my grandfather, John K, Floyd, was 
born. John K. Floyd married Miss Anne Teackle of Acco- 
mac County, their issue being: Hetty, James, Frederick, 
John K., Anne, William S., Catherine and Charles. Hetty, 
James, Frederick, John K. and Charles died without issue. 
Wm. S. Floyd (my father), married Miss Anne Teackle 
Smith (daughter of Isaac and Anne Teackle his wife) by 
whom he had James Frederick, Lavinia, William S. (my- 
self), Kate and Nannie T. Lavinia and Kate died when 
children. The William Floyd who married Miss Kendall 



had a nephew, Charles Floyd, who left the eastern shore of 
\"irginia when a boy of about nine years of age, and went 
to sea. He afterwards settled in Geor,e:ia and married. 
The brothers of my grandfather, John K.. were William 
and Mathew. William married a Miss Hallett. Mathew 

married . Their children were Thomas, 

Estha and Samuel. Snmuel married Miss Wise of the 
eastern shore of Virginia. They left one daughter, Ellen, 
who married Leonard I. Nottingham. I have never exam- 
ined the county records of either Accomac or Northamp- 
ton, or I might be able to trace from which brother my 
immediate ancestors came. 

There seems to exist the impression that we came from 
Charles, the original settler from Whales. 

The Anne Teackle, the mother of my father, and the 
Anne Teackle, mother of my mother, were first cousins. 
It may not be out of place in a genealogy to say that the 
Floyds, although never accepting political positions in the 
county, have always enjoyed the respect and confidence of 
the people, and many contemporary with my father have 
told me his opinions would have as much weight in the 
community as any one's in it. Miss Catherine Floyd mar- 
ried Mr. W. J. Jones of Hampton. Va., by whom she had 
John Floyd Jones, Wilson W., Kittie and Allie. :Miss 
Anne Floyd married John S. Parker of Northampton, the 
heirs being Maggie, Lucy, Jacob, Kate. John and Nancy. 
Nancy married Severn Eyre of Northampton. My 
mother, brother, sister and myself are now living in this 
city (B.nltimore, Md.), and T do not know of any relatives 
of our family by the name of Floyd, now living on the 
eastern shore of Virginia. 

It would seem from the absence of a family Bible, until 
a fev.' generations back, that our family have been more 
remarkable for loving their friends and hating their ene- 
mies, than for loving those that hate us: although quiet, 



and reserved in manners, the Floyds are a warm-hearted, 
passionate people, very decided in their Hkes and dislikes. 

Baltimore, Md., April 22nd, 1873. 

Wm. S. Floyd, 
In Compliment to his cousin, 
Mrs. Mary Hamilton, 

Savannah, Ga. 

The Charles Floyd mentioned in Mr. \V. S. Floyd's 
letter was my grandfather, a descendant of one of the 
brothers, who left Wales to come to America. Frederick 
of Wales (Charles' father), name was Samuel, who 
married Miss Susan Dixon of Northampon Count}^ 
Virginia. Of this marriage were three children: Charles, 
Eliza and Samuel. (Samuel died young). Their par- 
ents died at the same time, and were both buried in the 
same grave. They left Charles, 7, and Eliza, 5 years old, 
orphans in the cold world from which they received but 
little or no sympathy or kindness. 

Knowing nothing of the early life of Eliza, I only write 
of my respected and much loved grandfather, who, from 
his own account of his boyhood, after the death of his 
parents, v/as roughly treated, uncared for and deemed a 
trouble by those who should have been interested in his 
welfare — his own relatives. 

Whether his parents left any property he was ignorant, 
being only a child of nine when taken by his uncle to Nor- 
folk, and shipped to sea. 

Often have I heard him recount the many hardships he 
endured during fourteen years that he "follozved the seas," 
during which time he visited many places of note, and wit- 
nessed life in every variety and custom in almost all parts 
of the globe. He was generally on trading vessels, trans- 
ferring the products of different countries from one to 
another. 



8 

On one occasion visiting Africa, at one of the stations, 
the Captain left his ship and part of his crew while he went 
in quest of scold dust, ivory, monkeys and other things, 
such as the country offered for trade. During his absence 
many of the natives came to the station to see people with 
white skins and straight hair. (Charles was then quite a 
lad). They would approach and merely touch him and then 
fly oflf as if frightened. An old African woman wished much 
to purchase him from the Captain and offered for him 
palm oil, and wine, and salt, and because she could not get 
him, poisoned him in palm wine, which was procured by 
chopping through the bark of the tree, allowing the sap to 
escape, and this was what they called palm wine. From 
this poisoning he did not recover for some time. In all 
his tossings on tlie great deep he was only shipwrecked 
once, and then ofif Plum Island off the coast of Massachu- 
setts, but then suffered greatly from being frost-bitten. 
He was cared for and attended by an old woman who still 
had some warmth in her heart. 

When his wanderings on the great deep were over, he 
came first to Charleston, S. C, determining to live on terra 
firma. He was engaged to manage the business of a 
wealthy planter in South Carolina. All his worldy posses- 
sions were embraced in a sailing boat and his clothing, but 
he had much force of character and determination, an 
equipment which he made use of to a full extent ; nor was 
love idle. Falling in the society of excellent people he 
made the acquaintance of Miss Mary Fendin, and married 
her in the year 1768. Tn the following year, their only 
child, a son, was born, called John. At that time indigo 
was the chief product of Carolina, cotton being then 
scarcely known. Small quantities would be grown in gar- 
dens, picked from the hulls and sometimes twisted on bob- 
bins into sewing thread, to be used instead of flax, which 
was the onlv kind used. 



Mr. Floyd was remarkably successful in growing indigo, 
his commanding the highest market prices, but just as he 
was beginning to win success he had an unfortunate acci- 
dent, discharging a whole load from his gun in his right 
hand. He was then on one Of the islands near Charleston. 
Three times a surgeon went from Charleston to amputate 
the hand, but his determination was to die rather than lose 
his hand. By great care it was preserved, though much 
shattered and deformed by the accident. 

Fortune was smiling, though faintly, on his worldly 
prospects when a terrible reverse came which blighted the 
hopes of our ^country for a while — "the Revolutionary 
War." Among many others,' he suffered, but perhaps 
more severely, because of his unbounded Patriotism and 
his great independence of character, for never was a man 
more averse to duplicity and hypocrisy tHan he. But he 
did not experience half the unkindness from his avowed 
enemies as from his neighbors and acquaintances, the 
Tories. 

He, with others, enrolled themselves in a Volunteer 

Company, wearing in front of their hats a silver crescent, 

in which was conspicuously cut their motto: ''Liberty or 

Death.'' They were feared and envied, and — betrayed by 

false friends, many times, and finally, into the hands of the 
British. 

Three times was my grandfather's dwelling burnt over 
the heads of his wife and young son, and once they 
escaped only with their lives, fleeing to the secure and 
friendly shelter of the woods. There they took refuge for 
several days and were ministered to by a faithful servant, 
"Old Hazzard." They feared that even he would be tor- 
tured into betraying them. 

While Savannah was in possession of the British he was 
captured and brought a prisoner to the Commodore's ship. 
Then was the time that his fearless answers, his apparent 
thorough knowledge of the sea-faring life, made him con- 



lO 



spicuous. In appearance, he much resembled an EngHsh- 
man, and was suspected by the EngHsh Commander of 
being his countryman, but in his frank, undisguised man- 
ner his answers to questions were as follows : 

"Air. Floyd, are you not an Englishman?" 

"No, sir ! I am an American, by birth a native of the 
state of Virginia, and an enemy to King George." 

"But," said the Commodore, "I see you are a good sea- 
man ; renounce your country, receive the bounty money I 
ofiev you, and you shall be put in immediate command of 
a sixteen-gun ship of war." 

"Sir," said he, fearless of consequences, "were I in com- 
mand of this vessel, I would instantly pull down the colors 
now flying at her mast, nail those of the United States flag 
in their place and turn her guns against you !" 

"Well," said the Commodore, "I admire your patriotism 
and respect you for it. Have you had breakfast to-day, as 
you came on board at an early hour?" 

"No, sir; I have had nothing to eat in twenty-four 
hours." 

A whistle was blown ; his steward appeared, who was 
ordered to show Mr. Floyd into the cabin and furnish him 
with refreshments and he was allowed the liberty of the 
quarter-deck while his betrayers s^ood hat in hand iji the 
gayig-way of the ship waiting the reward of their infamy. 

I cannot recount all his trials during the war, but they 
were numerous. Now, when hostilities had ceased, and 
American Independence secured, Mr. Floyd still pursued 
planting for a living, superintending for those who had the 
means, and began to accumulate something for the sup- 
port of himself and small family. His only son at the 
proper age was sent to school and acquired with readiness 
such plain education as the country afforded, and when old 
enough, knowing how important it was that a young man 
should have some certain means of supporting himself, 
bound him to a carpenter's trade for five years. Such 



II 



great proficiency did he make, being apt, steady and aspir- 
ing, that his employer proposed to release him from one 
year of his indenture, but this he refused ; feeling himself 
bound for the full time, though grateful for his kindness. 
And no doubt it was for his benefit in the end, making him 
a more efficient and accomplished workman, as many 
specimens of his knowledge in this branch spoke in his 
praise in the town of Beaufort and elsewhere, where his 
proficiency was exhibited in his work. He was much aided 
in the acquirement of some necessary branches of educa- 
tion (which he could not acquire in his limited school days) 
by Mr. Barnard Elliott, who kindly gave him instruction 
at night when his day's task was ended, in arithmetic, 
plain geometry, and other useful knowledge. He em- 
braced every opportunity to improve himself, and success 
crowned his laborious efforts. 

In the year 1793, December 12, he married Miss Isabella 
Maria Hazzard in Beaufort, S. C. In 1795 he and his 
father, Mr. Charles Floyd, moved to Mcintosh County, 
Georgia, and settled on adjoining farms called the "Thick- 
ets," where was born the huiuble writer of these Ihies 
This event took place in my grandfather's house where I 
still remained after being weaned, and my parents had 
moved to their own house. Need I say that I was loved 
and petted? — but not spoiled — for my dear grandmother 
cared too much for my future welfare to indulge me to my 
own disadvantage, for she never permitted any injustice or 
rudeness even to a servant. My home was with dear old 
people who claimed me as their own, having the exclusive 
care of me, and assuming all my expenses. Soon as I was 
old enough my blessed grandmother taught me to read 
and spell, and trained me in the religion of the Episcopal 
Church, teaching me the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, Cate- 
chism and Ten Commandments. They are indelibly im- 
pressed upon my memory, and I shall never forget her 
kind and tender manner towards me. I can well remem- 



12 

ber when I was a little thing, she would take me in her 
lap at the breakfast table and cover me over with her 
white muslin apron while she poured out the coffee. Such 
little acts of loving care ever remain fresh in the mind, 
even if rendered to one when a child. I had nothing un- 
kind to dampen my feelings or make me unhappy, until 
the death of my grandmother on the 9th of September, 
1804. This was the saddest day of my young life, for I 
felt that I had lost my best friend. After this I went to 
live with my parents, being then nearly nine years of age. 
I felt almost a stranger among own brothers and sisters, 
having been unused to children. 

My grandfather commenced cotton planting in Georgia 
with much success. During these many years he had not 
heard anything from his family in Virginia, from whom he 
had been separated at so early an age. When on a visit 
to Savannah, and looking at the shipping at the wharves, 
his admiration was attracted to a very handsome schooner, 
and on inquiry was informed that the owner was Mr. John 
Kendall Floyd of Norfolk, to whom he procured an intro- 
dviction, feeling interested in meeting one of his own name 
from the same part of the country as himself. 

He learned from Mr. J. K. Floyd that he was an own 
cousin, that his sister was living and had a large family of 
children, among them a son called Charles, for her long 
lost brother. This information decided the old gentleman 
to make a visit to his native place, Northampton County, 
Virginia, where those who had been so long separated and 
many who had never met before, passed many pleasant 
days together. 

His nephew, Charles Fitchett, moved to Georgia with 
his family, remained several years and returned again to 
Virginia. Several of his nieces also visited him at his own 
home. They were Mrs. Betsy Costan Mrs. Sally Notting- 
ham, and Miss Nancy Fitchett, who resided with her uncle 
several years, but returned home again, as her parents 
were both living. There were other sisters. 



13 

My grandfather made a second visit to relations, and on 
his return home encountered a severe storm, and the Cap- 
tain tried to get in at St. Augustine bar, but nothing could 
save his vessel, and she was completely wrecked. The 
Governor of Florida very kindly furnished a boat for my- 
grandfather and party to return to their homes, which was 
gratefully remembered by those in distress. 

After my grandfather's death, how lonely and desolate 
was my grandfather's home ! But he could not be induced 
to go and live with my father, who was anxious that he 
should. 

My grandmother had several sisters, and one of them 
was invited by my grandfather to come and make his 
house her home, as she was a widow and without one. 
She had been twice married ; first to Mr. Pamenter, and 
then to Mr. Maxwell. She was Annie Fendin. 

My grandmother's mother, previous to her marriage, 
was Miss Edwards. Betsy Fendin married Mr. W. Da- 
vant, who a few months after was killed by Tories in the 
Revolutionary War, in the presence of his wife. She had 
an only son called Charles, born after her husband's mur- 
der. She married a second time, Mr. Bland, and by him 
had one son called Richard, and after his death had 
another husband, Mr. Rankin. By him she had a daughter 
named Mary for my grandmother. She married a Mr. 
Cook, and went out West to live. 

Miss Susan Fendin married Mr. Cheny, lived in South 
Carolina, and had a large family. Sarah Fendin married 
first Mr. Taylor, who died and left her childless. She was 
married a second time to Mr. John Hobkirk, an English- 
man and had one son named John Burton, who married 
Miss Charlotte Bourquin of Savannah. Mrs. Hobkirk 
died at the house of my father, and so did Mrs. Maxwell, 
and both were buried near their sister, Mrs. Charles Floyd. 



14 

Charles Davant married Miss Isabella Loyah of Savan- 
nah. Mr. Bland married Miss Cook of Carolina; each 
had families. 

My grandmother had two brothers, John and William 
Henry. I never saw either of them, but had a brother 
named for each of them. 

My grandfather assumed all the expenses of my educa- 
tion, clothing, etc., as it seemed a pleasure to him to pro- 
vide for me. He was a generous, kind parent to all his 
grandchildren, and was very fond of my mother. In his 
latter years he suffered much from a painful disease, can- 
cer of the face, and died September 9, 1820, at his home, 
Bellevue, Camden County, Georgia. I was with him in his 
last moments, and saw him consigned to his last resting 
place on earth, in the graveyard near Fairfield, by the side 
of his wife. 

He was about five feet six or seven inches high, auburn 
hair, a little inclined to red, a most perfect set of teeth, 
never used liquor of any kind, nor tobacco, was never 
sick, took no medicine, never was bled, until 60 years old, 
when he had a fall from his horse, and broke two of his 
ribs and his collar-bone. Then he was bled for the only 
time in his life. Not using liquor or tobacco were re- 
markable traits for a seafaring man. 

My grandfather and mother (Floyd), had but one son, 
John, who, as previously stated married in 1793, Miss Isa- 
bella Maria Hazzard. When but a school girl, he met her 
as she was returning home from school and he from his 
work. She was then the adopted daughter of Mrs. Sarah 
Waight, a distant relation of her father, a very wealthy 
and aristocratic lady of Beaufort, S. C. The attachment 
between them being mutual, and rather romantic, they 
were married, though not without opposition from Mrs. 
Waight, who wished her to accept some more wealthy 
offers, as two of her cousins were paying at the same time, 
their devoirs. In 1794 my parents moved to Georgia, their 



15 

first son born in Carolina, Oct. 19th, of that year. His 
name was Charles, and he died at the age of four days. 
Their next was myself, called for my two grandmothers, 
Mary Hazzard, born Oct. ist, 1795. 3rd, Charles Rinaldo, 
born Oct. 14th, 1797. 4th, Sarah Catherine Wigg, born 
Dec. I2th, 1799. 5th, John Fendin, born Jan. 25th, 1802. 
6th, Susan Lodviski Dixon, named for her great grand- 
mother, March 7th, 1804. 7th, Carolina Eliza Louisa, 
born July 7th, 1806. 8th, William Henry, born May 2nd, 
1808. 9th, Richard Ferdinand, born July 7th, 1810. loth, 
Melinda Isabella born March 20th, 1812. nth, Samuel 
Augustus, born Jan. 30th, 1814. 12th, Henry Hamilton, 
born Dec. nth, 1817. 

My grandfather and father lived in Mcintosh County, 
near Darien, Ga., and moved to their respective places in 
Camden County in the year i8do, when after a few years' 
residence in temporary houses, my father built for himself 
a nice substantial dwelling house, and also, one for his 
father at his place about a mile distant, but in sight of 
each other, where they lived in peace and happiness and 
love for each other. My father obtained the confidence of 
those among whom his lot was cast, was elected to mili- 
tary offices, to the State Legislature, and to Congress, and 
when the trying time came, was called to the command of 
any expedition against the Indians in the fall of 1813 and 
1814. He was successful in the battle of Autossu and at 
Callibee. In another battle with the Indians he received a 
wound in his knee in the early part of the fight, but though 
enduring much pain, never left his horse until the battle 
was over. The ball in his knee was never extracted and 
he was threatened with lockjaw. His aide-de-camp, Maj. 
Joel Crawford, had his horse shot under him and killed.* 

When my father returned home after an absence of sev- 
eral months, he found his little son Samuel but a few 
weeks old. 



*It was after these battles that one of Georgia's Counties was named "Floyd" on 
account of his bravery and gallantry. 



i6 

But not long had he to enjoy the comforts of his happy 
home, being in September following appointed to a Major 
General's command of Troops at Savannah, and did not 
refuse it. A visit from the British forces was daily ex- 
pected, but the decisive victory achieved at New Orleans 
by Gen. Jackson put an end to the war, a treaty of peace 
being negotiated at Ghent, when our anxiety and solici- 
tude about Savannah, instead of battle and bloodshed, re- 
sulted in peace and rejoicing, and a calm none knew how 
to realize but those who had passed through the horrors 
of war. After a proclamation of Peace, a dinner was given 
to my father and ofificers at which were several English 
ofificers, who accepted invitations extended to them 
through courtesy. A British vessel of war had been re- 
cently brought into this port, captured by one of ours. 
Capt. Downs was here, soVas Capt. Payne, wno had been 
severely wounded and just returned from Bermuda, where 
he had been a prisoner for several months. 

After quiet had been partially restored on the coast, a 
commodious boat was offered my father to convey his 
family to their long-abandoned home. My mother and 
the younger children embraced the offer. I and my sister 
Sarah remained here some time after, boarding with Mrs. 
Guerineau, living on the corner of South Broad and Dray- 
ton streets. 

During my father's command at Savannah, having all 
his family with him, we occupied the Telfair House, on the 
west corner of Bay street, being most convenient in case 
of the approach of the enemy. It being "Headquarters," 
we had a continued round of company, and were out a 
great deal ; for being General in Conwiayid of an Army, is 
sometimes an envious position. We received much kind- 
ness and attention from the people of Savannah, and dis- 
tinguished politeness from the Jewish branch of its popula- 
tion. My sister and self received much attention from the 
officers of the recently disbanded army, who were still de- 



17 

tained here from business or inclination. My little sister 
was much admired she was so gay and bright and social. 

During the war my father and grandfather lost much of 
their property, their plantations being very much exposed 
and near the water. "Fairfield" was abandoned by all save 
one old negro, who was willing to remain there and take 
care of the place. A great many newspapers were left in 
the house, which during a foraging visit from the British 
were set fire, with a view of burning the dwelling. Old 
"Daddy Titus" fell on his knees begging them not to burn 
"massa's house for he had a great many children." In 
their haste to depart, they did not wait to witness the fail- 
ure of their incendiary purpose, for the old man soon ex- 
tinguished the burning papers, and thus saved the build- 
ing. 

The time had arrived for us to leave Savannah and join 
our mother and the children at home, for our friends had 
already gone away, among them one, who carried with him 
the plighted vows of a true and loving heart, an officer on 
my father's stafif, to whom I was engaged with the entire 
approbation of the family. 

It was a sweet reunion at our dear old home, where we 
had had so many happy days, and now new hopes gilded 
the prospect of each succeeding day ; and we were happy 
in assisting our dear mother to get our mutilated home in 
comfortable order. 

I assisted my much honored father in writing, of which 
he had much to do. My brother Charles, a talented young 
man, who had accompanied my father in all his hardships 
and battles, was now sent to West Point to receive a mili- 
tary education, which was the idol of his heart and his 
prime happiness. When Gen. LaFayette visited America 
in 1825, my brother Charles commanded the Marine Corps 
sent to receive the grand old Marquis on his arrival in 
New York, and bid him welcome to our country for whose 
interests he had spent his treasure and endangered his life. 



i8 

I\Iy brother felt proud of this distinction. He married in 
Boston, May 22nd, 1823, Miss Catherine Sophia Powell, a 
highly educated lady who pursued her studies in London 
for five years. After his marriage he lived with my father. 
They had two children, Catherine and Autossee. Mrs. 
Floyd went to Boston to visit her friends, leaving her old- 
est child with my mother, the baby she took with her. On 
leaving the vessel the nurse fell with the baby into the 
water, but they w^ere rescued by a gentleman who jumped 
in and saved them ; but poor little Autossee w^as never well 
after and died May 5th, 1828. Her mother went into a 
rapid decline and died at Boston without again seeing her 
husband, July 17th, 1828. Catherine also died at the age 
of seventeen at the residence of her grand-parents, Nov. 
2ist, 1842. 

My brother Charles married his second wife, Julia Ross 
Boog of St. Mary's, Ga., at Bellevue, Sept. 9th. 183 1, and 
resided at Fairfield, which place my father gave him, hav- 
ing built a large handsome house at his father's place, 
Belhvue, where he and family lived. C. R. Floyd filled 
many military appointments, went to the Legislature, and 
was appointed to remove Indians from Florida, went 
through the Okefenokee Swamp, but the savages had but 
recently deserted their former abode on a large island in 
the heart of the swamp, where were found many things 
that had been recently used by them. The island has since 
been called Floyd Island. In the midst of his happiness 
and usefulness, and in the exercise of arms, literature and 
the greatest of all his talents, "painting," he was stricken 
by disease, and fell a victim to liver aiTection at Fairfield, 
March 22nd, 1845. 

By his second wife he had several children. Miss Sarah 
Catherine Wigg Floyd was married to Dr. Aime Delaro- 
cheaulion of Dinan, France, by Rev. Wm. Mathews, Epis- 
copal, at Fairfield. Feb. 28th, 1822. She was an accom- 
plished, intellectual woman, a general favorite, and much 



19 

loved at home. She died of a long and painful illness at 
Savannah, Ga., May 8th, 1876, leaving an only daughter 
and one grand-daughter. Her daughter, Mrs. Charles 
Hamilton, died at Dinan, France, Jan. 15th, 1877, but little 
over a month after arriving there, and leaving her only 
child, Mary Hazzard Hamilton, with her aged uncle, the 
brother of her father. As Mary will fall heir to the estate 
of the Delarocheaulion family, she thinks of remaining 
with her uncle so long as he lives far away from her native 
country and nearest relatives, but we cannot foresee the 
dealings of Providence with us, nor find out His myster- 
ious ways. 

John Fendin Floyd, a remarkably well-formed, hand- 
some man with light curling hair, and the features of our 
blessed mother, was educated partly at Mount Zion, near 
Sparta, Hancock County, Georgia, under the supervision 
of the Rev. Carlisle Beman. He was a member of the 
State Legislature, a fine musician, possessing very pol- 
ished manners and a social disposition. He married Miss 
Ann Hunt Alston, daughter of Col. Robert Alston of 
Sparta, Ga., Dec. 3rd, 1829. The ceremony was performed 
by Rev. Dr. Lovick Pierce of the Methodist Church. Just 
as it was over, and congratulations w^ere being offered, a 
great crash startled every one ; it was the hall lamp falling 
from the place where it hung for eight years, entirely 
broken, spilling the oil, and creating great confusion for a 
little while. To have fallen at that particular crisis caused 
many superstitious remarks. All things else went oflf well 
at the wedding, and there was an elegant dinner the follow- 
ing day. On the one ensuing, I returned home to Mill- 
edgeville, and when I had made extensive preparations for 
their reception they were prevented from accepting by a 
melancholy occurrence, the accidental killing of Gideon, 
the youngest son of Mr. Robert Alston, about sixteen 
years old. This delayed my brother's return home, and 
about the middle of January he and his young wife spent a 



20 

few days in Milledgeville and proceeded on to Darien, 
where they were met by my father and sister Caroline. 

Kow Httle do we know what a few days may bring forth ! 
Anne and Caroline went out shopping, and my brother, 
walking down the street encountered Allen B. Powell, with 
whom father had had some political misunderstanding, 
and, notwithstanding his earnest wish that John would 
take no notice of the affair, met and struck Powell with a 
small riding whip, who simultaneously fired a pistol which 
he drew from his pocket and inflicted 2. fatal wound. My 
brother was carried into a drug store near by, where he 
only lived long enough to see his wife, father and sister. 
My father asked him: "My son, are you hurt?" ''Yes," 
said he. "Shot through my vitals." A boat was furnished, 
and his remains borne to the residence of my brother 
Charles, where he was conveyed to the burial ground and 
interred by torchlight without the knowledge of our dear 
mother. My father remained with his young daugh.ter-in- 
law in Darien until her friends could go to her. She pre- 
ferred returning to her home, of late so happy, rather than 
go among strangers. It was a terrible blow to our pre- 
cious mother, so devoted to this darling son, and nothing 
could allay her grief until she had her beloved one disin- 
terred, placed her hand on the wound that had cost his life, 
and cut a lock of beautiful hair from the head it adorned. 
This sad event took place on the 25th of January, 1830, 
when he was twenty-eight years old. This is one of the 
saddest events in our family history. After some years his 
widow married again, Mr. Decimus Gaillard of Charles- 
ton, who was shot and killed not long after, while on a 
camp hunt, by whom was never known. She made a third 
marriage with Gen. King of Alabama, who left her again a 
widow. She was childless and has now gone to her Eter- 
nal rest. 

A strange fatality seemed to pursue the Alston family, 
as well as those connected with it. Augustus Alson was 



21 

killed in a duel with Gen. Reid ; Willis Alston assassinated 
Gen. Reid and was himself killed in Texas. Having taken 

the life of Mr. S. , he was arrested and imprisoned 

and public opinion was so much against him that though 
wounded, he was taken from prison and shot — with hventy- 
three balls. It was said of him that in his death strug- 
gle he choked a man to death! Recently Col. R. Alston 
of Atlanta, who studiously avoided and had great horror 
of dying by violence, was in an unsolicited attack, mtcr- 
dered without cause. I only mention these facts because 
of the connection of the families by marriage. 

Susan Lodviski Dixon Floyd was married to Mr. Benja- 
min Hopkins, Feb. 28th, 1822, at Fairfield, at the same 
time that Sister Sarah was married to Dr. Delarocheaulion 
by Rev. Wm. Mathews, Episcopal minister. They went 
to his mother's at Baisden's BlufT, near Darien, Mcintosh 
County. They had a large family of children: i, John 
Francis; 2, Charles Rinaldo ; 3, John Floyd; 4, America 
Rebecca; 5, Cornelia Christina; 6, Mary Hamilton; 7, 
Henry; 8, Joseph Mulvy; 9, Isabella Maria. This dear 
sister was a widow several years and died at Jacksonville, 
Fla., Dec. 27th, 18—. Sister Susan was born March 7th, 
1804, and named for the mother of our grandfather, C. 
Floyd. 

Carolina EHza Louisa was born July 7th, 1806, at Fair- 
field, Ga., and was married July 3rd, , to James Ham- 
ilton Blackshear, oldest son of Gen. David Blackshear of 
Laurens County, Georgia. They had two sons, who died 
young, and two daughters, Fanny Maria and Isabella 
Sarah. Fanny married Dr. James Emmett Blackshear, 
had a family of seven children and died at Macon, Ga., 
leaving two sons and three daughters. 

William Floyd was born at Fairfield, May 2nd, 1808, 
and died of bilious fever at Bellevue, Oct. 31st, 1814. 

Richard Ferdinand Floyd, born at Fairfield, July 7th, 
1810, a man of polished manners and a sweet musician. 



22 

He married Miss Mary Ann Chevalier of St. Mary's, Ga., 
Sept. 9th, 1 83 1, and died at Green Cove Springs, Fla., June 
27th. 1870, leaving three daughters: IMelinda Isabella, who 
married Mr. John Drysdale ; Caroline Collibee, who mar- 
ried Mr. Butler. He only lived a few weeks. She made a 
second marriage with Mr. Dunstan Page of Ohio — no 
children. Anna Maria still unmarried, living with her 
mother.* Richard was a painter, musician and beautiful 
writer. He adopted his oldest grandson, Richard F. Drys- 
dale, who was drowned by the upsetting of a boat in the 
St. John's river, when about fifteen years old. His oldest 
daughter, Mrs. Drysdale, died leaving two sons and three 
daughters. 

Melinda Isabella was born at Fairfield, March 20th. 
1812, and was married to Mr. William P. Hopkins of Mc- 
intosh County, Georgia. She died suddenly at the resi- 
dence of his mother on the 14th of October, having been 
married but little over one month ; and while my mother 
was expecting her on a visit home; her corpse was car- 
ried to her! How were her fond hopes and expectations 
disappointed, cut ofif by this mysterious Dispensation ! 
She had a sweet, well cultivated voice, very social in her 
manners, affectionate and kind-hearted. Her husband did 
not long survive her, and both were gathered to the tomb 
in their early years — leaving many sad hearts which loved 
them and missed them. 

Samuel Augustus was born Jan. 30th, 1814. His talent 
as a musician was highly cultivated, played finely on the 
violin and piano. He never married, was devoted to our 
dear mother and never left her as long as she lived. Sam- 
uel was named for our great grandfather, Samuel Floyd of 
Virginia. He was possessed of many noble traits of char- 
acter ; died at St. Mary's, Ga., Feb. i6th, 1878. 

Henry Hamilton was born at Fairfield Dec. nth, 1817, 
the last of the family. He married Miss Margaret Ann 



♦Anna Maria married Mr. Robert Alston and died not long after. He lived only a 
short time. 



23 

Boog of St. Mary's, Ga., who died not quite a year after, 
leaving an infant daughter born on the 3rd of October, 
1840, called Susan Lodviski, but on arriving at the years 
of maturity she changed her name to Mary Rose, for a 
half aunt. » 

She was married August, 1879, to Mr. Albert Graves 
of Dawson, Ga. Henry married a second wife, Miss Mor- 
dina Jane Boog, sister of Margaret; M. J. Floyd died in 
February, on the 24th, 1862, leaving a large family, viz. : 
Margaret Isabella, who married Mr. Pacetty ; Kate So- 
phia, who married Mr. Russell; Augusta Gallic, Samuel 
Augustus, who married Miss Theresa Pohlman of Apa- 
lachicola ; Henry Hamilton, who married Miss Dora 
Rogero of Florida ; Randolph, who died when about twelve 
years old; James Boog, Thomas Bourke, Jule Elizabeth, 
Ross, Isabella Maria, Mordina Jane, and Estelle. Henry 
H. Floyd, father of this large family, died in Georgia, Feb. 
25th, 1873. This was my youngest brother, and I the old- 
est and only living of all my sisters and brothers, and the 
recorder of these facts, have left myself last — a sad record 
in many respects, but God chooses for us onr times. 



About Myself, M. H. F. 



NOT many months after my dear grandmother's death 
I was placed at school in St. Mary's, boarding with 
a well educated lady of elegant and polished man- 
ners. While boarding with Mrs. Osborne she married Mr. 
Paris, from the West Indies, who, with his aged mother, 
paid a visit to friends in Nassau, accompanied by his beau- 
tiful young step-daughter, Maria Innis Osborne. In re- 
turning to St. Mary's, the vessel was lost ofT St. Andrew's 
Bar. Poor Maria was the only person drowned. She re- 
fused to throw ofif her clothing, or could have been saved 
by one deeply interested in her. 

My first school master was an old gentleman, Mr. 
Armor, who wore a queue and knee breeches, walked up 
and down the school room, often singing. Reading, spell- 
ing and writing were all my studies except to memorize 
verses and such trifles. The school was in the Court 
House, under which was the jail, into which was put some- 
times, an old crazy woman, whom we all feared and knew 
as ''Mom Prue." On one occasion I dropped my spelling 
book through an opening in the floor which was to my 
dismay appropriated by old "Mom Prue;" she could not 
return it through the crack, so by my earnest entreaties 
she pushed it through the bars of the jail door. Was this 
a premonition that I should obtain knowledge through 
great difificulties, even through the grate of a prison? 

I continued at school in St. Mary's nearly two years ; 
not however with the same teacher, my next being Mr. 
McCay of Charleston, a man of more character, education 
and refinement. He was kind in inviting me to visit his 
family; had a nice library, and I enjoyed much the privi- 
lege of looking over his books, maps, etc. 



25 

Early in 1807 I was placed at a high school in Beaufort, 
S. C, so also were my brother Charles and sister Sarah, 
taught by Mr. and Mrs. Hicks and Miss Lavinia Cady. 
Having the opportunity of receiving a first-class educa- 
tion, I was put into studies far beyond my comprehension, 
and though I made some progress, it was with great difiB- 
culty, not having proper explanations to what I knew so 
little of. What could I know about solving problems of 
any kind? I was studying arithmetic without knowing 
anything about it, except the tables, which I memorized by 
rote. 

I was also instructed in music by Mrs. Lubbock, and 
such a teacher ! The keys of her piano were marked, a 
gamut to correspond and that was all. At the end of the 
term I knew not tweedle-de from tweedle-dum. At the 
end of one year my father carried me home, having en- 
gaged a line old Irish gentleman by the name of Robinson 
to teach us. To him I am indebted for my knowledge of 
grammar, arithemtic and plain geometry, as with him cor- 
rect language and mathematics were a passion. He al- 
lowed his scholars very little time for exercise, only of the 
mind. He had school before breakfast, all day long and 
sometimes after tea. Truly he made tis learn. After a 
while Mr, Robinson had a call to take charge of a large 
school at Antigua Bay, in one of the West India islands, 
and left us reluctantly. He was succeeded by Mr. Levi 
Walbridge of Vermont, a very thorough scholar, but of 
stern and precise manner. 

And, having made good use of my time and advantages, 
I was in the spring of 1810, sent to school in Charleston, 
S. C, under the care and instruction of Miss Julia Datty, 
a highly educated French lady, who had charge of the 
Catholic Seminary in Charleston. She had sixty day 
scholars and sixty boarders in the school. I was intro- 
duced into the English school for examination in branches 
that I had studied, and Mr. Hughes was astonished at my 



26 

proficiency. He gave me sums in different rules and I was 
then as expert at the extraction of square and cube root 
and the rules, definition and application of plain geometry, 
as spelling "Baker." I was accordingly graduated and 
sent into the French department, having been also exam- 
ined in grammar and not found deficient. 

My studies now were French, music, dancing, geogra- 
phy, astronomy and use of the globes and telescope, etc. 

The most advanced scholars were taught by Miss Datty, 
the second class by Miss Julia Lachicotte. Mons. De\'il- 
lers taught me music; Mr. Gilbert dancing, and Mr. Le- 
ceumons drawing. 

Only French was spoken during school hours or at the 
table. There were three tables ; one presided over by Miss 
Datty, one by her father, who lived with her, and one by 
Miss Lachicotte. Every Sunday we had company, soup 
and wine at dinner. We were very kindly treated. If one 
of the girls was sick, she was moved into Miss Datty's 
room and there remained until well, having always some 
member of the household in the room. 

Though in a Catholic school, we were never annoyed by 
any religious influence, and had seats in a Protestant 
church hired for us. My friends who went with me were 
Margery Baillec, Jane Spalding, Anne Couper and Anna 
Matilda Page. I met also many of the girls I had known 
in Beaufort, while going to school there. I boarded with 
Grandma Waight, and during that time Bishop Stephen 
Elliott was born. I was often at his father's house with 
his sisters. 

Miss Datty had a beautiful flower garden, and on every 
Sunday morning when our procession was formed in the 
long hall in charge of one of the teachers, each girl was 
presented with a bouquet of flowers, then we proceeded to 
church in regular order and back again when the services 
were over. 



27 

These school days were very pleasant, but I was glad to 
return home, though my education was yet unfinished. At 
that time, the advantages I then needed were offered in St. 
Mary's, and my dear old grandfather came for me and car- 
ried me home in his own boat, stopping at Beaufort and 
Savannah on his way. 

Once more at home and very happy, but not long to 
stay, before my father carried me to St. Mary's, where I 
pursued the accomplishments of dancing, French and 
music under the instruction of Mr. J. C. Michel, whose 
method was very fine, and I felt I was improving. 

My time passed delightfully, being near home and 
boarding with a dear friend and thinking myself now a 
young lady. The attentions shown me were not such as to 
make me shun them. 

The topic of the day was War with England; and not 
only talked of, but formally declared in June, 1812. 
Troops were stationed at Point Peter (five miles from St. 
Mary's) awaiting for an opportunity to display their mili- 
tary skill. The officers had a gay time visiting in the best 
society the country afforded. They were always fascinat- 
ing, and always susceptible. My mother had brought me 
up with the strictest conformity to good breeding, mod- 
esty and great discretion of conduct, without prudery. My 
father's position entitled me to attentions which were pro- 
fusely lavished upon me ; and now came the trials of the 
heart as well as of the mind. 

My French teacher was a highly accomplished and per- 
fect gentleman, making his living by his talents. He, with 
his parents, lived in St. Domingo at the time of the trou- 
bles there, lost all their property and with many others, 
fled for safety to the United States, where they found a 
refuge. 

Jean Claudius Michel was a native of Languedoc, 
France, and seventeen years my senior, but was attracted 
by my unsophisticated manners or great simplicity, and in 



28 

the most delicate and refined manner expressed his admi- 
ration, which soon assumed a tenderer form and he be- 
came one of the most ardent and devoted lovers. 

Without any other feeling but that of respect and re- 
gret that his feelings had led him on so far, I was aware 
that this state of things Vv'as very improving and refining 
to me, for no pains had been spared to advance me in my 
studies, of which he seemed very ambitious. This state of 
affairs placed me in a great dilemma, which I told him 
could not exist without the knowledge of my parents, and 
I was certain they would take me home if he persisted in 
his attentions to me. Perhaps, for a day or two, he would 
suspend them, but they were then doubly renewed, and 
how many opportunities does the French language afford 
for saying tender things, even if not meant ! 

In many ways he exerted the influence of an elder 
brother, advising and scrupulously watching over my man- 
ners and many little things that adorn a young lady. 

Think not that he was free from jealousy, for I had other 
admirers more admired than he was, though none more 
deserving. 

This was an eventful crisis in my life. It was the year 
1812. Warhzd been declared against Great Britain, and 
Point Peter, five miles from St. Mary's, was made a mili- 
tary station, and troops sent there in consequence of the 
exposed situation of our sea-coast. Among the officers I 
made many acquaintances, and among them Lieutenant 
Alexander G. Sevier of Mariners, who was a very hand- 
some, dashing officer, whom I first met at a dinner party 
at Dunginess, Cumberland Island, having gone there with 
a large party on Commodore Campbell's barge by special 
invitation from him, who was an old friend of my grand- 
father — a gallant old bachelor, who was a little lame, hav- 
ing received a wound in his heel at the battle of Tripoli. 

At the dinner party Lieutenant Sevier was my escort, 
very polite, gay and pleasant company — not at dinner 



29 

only, but all day he was unremitting- in his attentions, and 
only ceased when I was again seated in the Commodore's 
boat. He finally told me that he would call on me. I re- 
plied that Major and Mrs. Clark would no doubt be happy 
to see him, trying to conceal the pleasure it would also 
afford me. Well, he came and kept coming and paying 
the most devoted attentions to Gen. Floyd's daughter, 
until they culminated in a declaration of love, and so soon 
as I could realize my new position, referred him to my 
parents, a higher authority that could better judge for me. 
He lost no time in consulting my father, and asking his 
his leave to address me. His reply was not a positive re- 
fusal or encouragement, being a stranger to us ; but there 
was a degree of vanity in being admired by a handsome 
young man wearing epaulettes and a three-cornered cha- 
peau — and nephew of John Sevier, then a member of Con- 
gress, and had been Governor of Tennessee. So a condi- 
tional engagement existed between us, and we spending a 
happy time, when I finished my lessons and returned home 
and he was ordered to another command. He was se- 
verely wounded in the battle of Lundy's Lane, fought in 
defense of Washington City. After this he was sent to a 
distant station, and stayed a long time. There being no 
direct communication except by express messenger, it be- 
ing the understanding that should we not meet again in a 
given time, we were both released from our obligations. 
So, I felt under the circumstances, that I was free to act 
ad libitum, and had an offer approved by friends and ac- 
cepted by myself. This was my distant cousin, William 
Wigg Hazzard, who with his brother, Thomas Fuller Haz- 
zard, sought my hand simultaneously, quarreling with each 
other about who should win the preference. Things were 
approaching a crisis. 

Not long before I was to have been married, my father 
proposed a visit to our friends in St. Mary's. Our party 
consisting of himself, mother, sister Sarah and myself, ac- 



30 

companicd by Col. H. and one of our neighbors, Mr. 
Grant, a Scotchman, finely educated, wealthy and very 
fond of fish, oysters and vmsic. He presented to my sister 
and myself a volume of the national airs of his country. 
The great object was that we should play them for him, 
and he would become so excited that he would snap his 
fingers, move his feet, and manifest emotions of great de- 
light at the sound of his favorite reels, and Stathispeys, 
played on the piano. 

During our visit at St. Mary's, Mrs. Clark gave quite a 
large party. To my surprise among the guests on that 
occasion was Major Sevier, who had arrived unexpectedly 
in St. Mary's, and who came unceremoniously without an 
invitation, for the sake of old acquaintance. He seemed 
verv glad to see me. I danced once with him and he em- 
braced the opportunity to whisper his undiminished at- 
tachment, making apologies and explanations for his long 
absence and silence, which he could not obviate, but it was 
too late. 

Still he was not quite sure of having received cards of 
final dismissal. The next day we left St. Mary's in my 
father's beautiful plantation boat for home. In passing 
Point Peter, which was a military post, my father was sa- 
luted by officers and soldiers, among whom the Marine 
Corps, commanded by Major Sevier, was conspicuous. 
As we passed very near the shore, part of the demonstra- 
tions of respect and deference was intended for the ladies, 
who silently and gracefully acknowledged the compliment. 

The big Colonel, siezed by a fit of jealousy, could not 
restrain his feelings and remarks, saying: "I will kill him, 
I will follow him to the end of eternity." I remarked to 
him, "Eternity has no end." Mr. Grant was much amused 
and as tickled as if he had heard his favorite Tullochgoram 
performed in sister Sarah's most animated style. 

We arrived home to a late supper. Colonel Hazzard 
kept jeering me about the devotion of my former friend, 



31 

when I plainly told him before retiring that night, that if 
he mentioned the subject to me in the same spirit, he 
might consider himself dismissed from my train of ad- 
mirers. 

At breakfast next morning he remarked : "I have two 
young buzzards and if I thought they would insult Sevier I 
would send them to him." "Well," said I, "remember 
what I told you last night, and I will be true to my word, 
cost what it may." This ended my engagement. 

My father went to Savannah a day or two after, and on 
his return was accompanied by my friend Miss Margery 
Baillie, who was- to be my bridesmaid, and spend a few 
days with me before the important event should transpire. 
"What day have you appointed?" asked Margaret. "No 
day at all, my friend ; we will have a nice time without a 
wedding," and so we had. 

A few months after I attended the marriage of Miss 
Baillie near Darien, to Mr. John Keli of Sunbary, Liberty 
County, and went with her to her new home. 

Rumors of my contemplated marriage reached the ears 
of Sevier, who had no reason to doubt their truth, and 
while living in Savannah, he again visited that place on 
business, where I again met him. He was then engaged to 
be married to Jane Bacot of Charleston, who fearing some 
influence over his feelings, sent out invitations for their 
wedding, and requested his immediate presence in Charles- 
ton. He left with Commodore Campbell a letter for me, 
returning some of my letters and little souvenirs, and say- 
ing that the steps he was about to take were "the most 
painful of his life." He carried his wife to Greenville, 
Tenn., entered into active political life, and did not live 
long to be happy or miserable. She was a fine musician 
and composer. 

Col. Everard Hamilton was then addressing me, and 
stood higher in the estimation of my friends, and in my 
own affections, than any one who had previously solicited 



32 

my hand and heart, and— after the war was over we were 
married' at Fairfield, Camden County, Georgia, by the 
Rev. William Mathews of the Episcopal Church, on 
Thursday, Oct. 31st, 1816. Col. A. B. Fannin of Savan- 
nah, Mr. M. L. Hill of Boston, my brother Charles R. 
Floyd, Miss Maria Houston, Miss Catherine Mcintosh, 
and sister Sarah, were our attendants. 

We remained more than a month after with my dear 
parents and grandfather, then went with my husband to his 
parents' home in Hancock County, Georgia, where I was 
received most kindly and affectionately by all his family. 
On our way from Sparta to Capt. Marmaduke Hamilton's, 
our horse became frightened and ran away, threw us both 
out, breaking the buggy and hurting me considerably. I 
was bled by a strange gentleman on the roadside, and my 
arm bound up with a bandana handkerchief. In this condi- 
tion we made our first appearance among his friends. I 
was conveyed immediately to bed and a few hours later 
Col. Hamilton was seized with severe pains in his head, 
having received a slight contusion on it from our fall. 

An old neighbor was called in to bleed him, and punc- 
tured an artery in the operation. Spasms ensued and the 
bleeding became alarming. Dr. Tenell was sent for at a 
distance of eight miles. He passed us on the road on his 
way to a wedding. Several weeks elapsed before we were 
able to accept the reception contemplated for us by his 
brother and estimable wife. After remaining there and at 
his aged father's until February, I returned to my father's 
and Col. H. went to Maryland to purchase negroes with 
my marriage portion ($6,500), presented by my kind grand- 
father and father, and some money which he had earned 
and saved. He did not return until June and on August 
24th, 181 7, our first son, Charles Floyd Hamilton was born. 
We remained at home until late in December, as my young- 
est brother, Henry Hamilton, was born on the iith of that 
month, 1817. After returning to the up-country, Col. 



33 

Hamilton rented a farm in Hancock County, on Fort 
Creek, belonging to the Holsey estate. Two years we 
lived there, then moved to Darien, Ga., to pursue the more 
lucrative business of factorage and commission business, 
but at the expiration of two years, was elected to the office 
of Secretary of State ; moved to Milledgeville, where we 
remained eight years. We lived two years at our own 
plantation in Twiggs County. In 1833 moved to Macon 
and engaged in the cotton business, and lived there ten 
years, then moved to Savannah in the same business, 
where he died Jan. 12th, 1847. 

He endured many trials and privations from the fickle- 
ness of fortune, but much more from the perfidy of friends. 
Yet, he preserved his integrity of character unsullied by 
any act that would tarnish one so pure in heart, so just and 
true and honest and deeply pious. He was a true Christian 
gentleman, taken from a large and devoted family when 
most needed by them. But who can controvert the will of 
God ! He was called from a world of trouble to the en- 
joyment of that rest which is the reward of a good man. 

Col. Hamilton had been cheated and deprived of all his 
worldly possessions before coming to Savannah, there- 
fore, we came here poor, though acquainted with the best 
people in the city, many of whom we had entertained at 
our house in times more prosperous. Retaining the con- 
fidence of honorable men, we have been enabled to live 
economically and respectably in this community, though 
often in sorrow and deep affliction, as so many of our 
loved ones have followed him to "that home whence no 
traveler returns," I turn another leaf to new scenes. 



Our Children 



1st. 

CHARLES FLOYD HAMILTON, named for my 
dear and respected grandfather, was born at Fair- 
field, Camden County, Georgia, Aug. 24th, 181 7, at 
the residence of my parents. He was a nice, obedient 
child, attracting much notice, accompanying me almost 
everywhere that I went. He improved well when sent to 
school and finished his education at Athens College, Ga. 
On Nov. nth, 1847, he married his cousin, Isabella Maria 
Caroline Delarocheaulion, at Black Point, Camden 
County, Georgia. The marriage ceremony was performed 
by Rev. Washington Baird, a Presbyterian minister, who 
had been his teacher; and afterwards my son and his wife 
came to Savannah and lived with me. They had three 
children, Catherine, Charles Floyd and Mary Hazzard. 
The two eldest died young. Mary went to France with 
her mother in 1867. They had a very cold, rough passage 
from New York to Brest, and when they arrived at Dinan 
at their uncles', Mrs. Hamilton was very unwell, and con- 
tinued to get worse, until the 15th of January, when death 
closed the scene of her extreme sufferings and she was 
buried in a strange land ! As Mary will become heir to the 
Delaroucheaulion estate, by earnest request of her uncle, 
Mons. Jean Baptiste Delaroucheaulion, she will remain 
with him while he lives. He is now in his 84th year. 

C. H. Hamilton, in consequence of failing health, accom- 
panied by his wife and little daughter, went for its im- 
provement to White Sulphur Springs, Va., and three days 
after their arrival there, he died of some disease of his 
throat. His remains rest at the Springs under a monument 
which reveals the name of the unconscious sleeper. His 



35 

soul, I humbly trust, has made a happy change from time 
to eternity. He died Sept. 3rd, 1859, at White Sulphur 
Springs, Va. 

2nd. John Floyd Ceasar, named for his grandfathers, 
John Hamilton, and John Floyd, was born at Fort Creek, 
Hancock County, Ga., Nov. 14th, 1819, and died at Belle- 
vue, Camden County, at the house of my parents, June 
29th, 1821, of the thrush settling on his bowels. He was 
buried at Fairfield in the family burial ground. 

3rd. Isabella Maria Carolina, named for my dear 
mother, was born at Darien, Mcintosh County, Georgia, 
Nov. 2ist, 1821, and finished her education at Wesleyan 
Female College, being one of the first scholars entered 
there. She had advantages for a good education, which 
she improved, and played finely on the piano. She was at 
an early age a pupil of Dr. Taylor, in charge of the High 
School in Sparta. She married Everard Hamilton Black- 
shear, son of Gen. David Blackshear, of Laurens County, 
went to Laurens County to live, and still has a home there. 
She had a large family of children, viz. : 

1st, Everard Hamilton; 2nd, David Stoutt ; 3rd, Charles 
Jefiferson, who died young; 4th, Elijah Franks, and 5th, 
Stonewall Jackson, who both died young ; 6th. John Duke ; 
7th, Isabella Maria Caroline ; 8th, Thomas Bryan ; 9th, 
Richard William; loth, Georgia LaFayette ; nth, Virginia 
Hazzard, who died at the age of six months. Her hus- 
band, Everard H. Blackshear, died of pneumonia in Lau- 
rens County, Georgia. They were married at Savannah, 
Ga., by Rev. Josiah Lewis, Oct. loth, 1844. 

My fourth child, Mary Anne LaFayette, born in Mill- 
edgeville, Ga., July 30th, 1824. A bright happy child, who 
improved every opportunity to obtain a good education. 
She attended the High School at Sparta under instruction 
of Mr. Taylor, and graduated at Wesleyan Female Col- 
lege, Macon, with honors and building upon a good foun- 
dation, has become a fine scholar and ready writer. She 



36 

married Elijah Franks Blackshear, Oct. i6th, 1845. Cere- 
mony performed by Rev. Caleb W. Key. They went to 
Laurens County to live, and had a large family, never hav- 
ing lost one of her children, ten in number. Her children 
are: ist, James Everard, who married Miss Katie Baker of 
North Carolina, daughter of Rev. Archibald Baker, presi- 
dent of Floral College, North Carolina, born Jan. 12th, 
1847; 2nd, Mary Hamilton, born Dec. 25th, 1847; 3rd, 

Elijah Franks, born June ; 4th, Joseph Williams, 

born ; 5th, Zoe Fanny, born ; 6th, Charles 

Jeflferson, born ; 7th, Duke, born ; 8th, Clar- 
ence, born ; 9th, Isabella Powell, born ; loth, 

Walter Floyd. Her husband, Elijah Francks Blackshear, 
died at his home in Laurens County from cancer of the 
face, after great suffering, in July, 1879, leaving a bright 
example of a good life and undefiled character, as an in- 
heritance to his children. His was the triumphant death 
of a good man and a Christian. His widow and family 
moved to Brooks County, near Quitman, having sold out 
in Laurens, and purchased there, a much pleasanter situa- 
tion. 

My fifth child : John Floyd Hamilton, born Sept. 20th, 
1826, in Twiggs County, Georgia. He suffered much 
when a baby with colic, otherwise a fine healthy child, a 
sweet little fellow in whom was developed a fine mind. He 
acquired learning very readily, studying the languages and 
other important things. He entered Emory College very 
young, and pursued his studies there until he finished his 
education, and was always a bright scholar. He assisted 
his brother in the commission business, but became af- 
flicted with intense headaches, neuralgia and catarrh. In 
June, 1868, accompanied by his sister Z. D. H., and myself, 
visited nearly all the mineral springs of our states and tried 
different remedies, which only palliated, but did not cure 
him of his sufferings, which terminated his precious life at 
Savannah, Ga., Jan. nth, 1872. Thus passed away our 



37 

dearly loved John, His remains rest in Laurel Grove 
Cemetery. 

6th. Sarah Frances Charlessina (the last name given 
by her uncle Charles Floyd), was bo;-n in Milledgeville, 
Nov. 7th, 1828, and died June 6th, 1830, at Bellevue, Cam- 
den County, Georgia. When taken she was in the bloom 
of beauty and health, dying of inflammatory croup, and 
was buried at Fairfield, in the family burying ground, sur- 
rounded by the graves of kindred and friends. Rest, 
loved one, rest. 

7th. Everard, born at Milledgeville, Sept. 22nd,, 1830, 
at 4 p. m. ; and 8th, Marmaduke, at 4:30 p. m., being twin 
sons. One weighed 10^ pounds, the other 9^4 pounds. 
They were fine, healthy boys and so much alike that one 
could hardly be told from the other. Often they gave the 
same answers to questions, even when not together. Ex- 
amined by a phrenologist, they were the same. If one was 
sick, the other became so, too, in a few hours, but as they 
grew older, this sameness wore off, and they looked less 
alike. Both had fine minds and conspicuous musical 
talent, and good business tact. Their education was inter- 
rupted by the death of their father, for then the means of 
affording them such privileges were cut off, and instead of 
going to college, were compelled to go into business to aid 
in getting along in the world, which afforded nothing to 
the family that was not earned by their own labor. 

In the year 1852 we all vv'ent up the country, the boys 
cultivating a little farm, Zoe and I staying with Belle and 
Mary Blackshear. In the fall Everard had made a busi- 
ness arrangement with a house in Savannah, and on the 
25th of September left Laurens to fulfill it. He had not 
been very well, having a light attack of fever, but being re- 
covered enough to leave did so, expecting to stay with his 
brother C. until the family returned home later in the sea- 
son. But, O ! how little do we know of the appointments 
of Providence ! After his arrival in Savannah he was again 



38 

attacked with fever, and attended by Dr. Arnold, never 
thinking: that he had yellow fever, until the unmistakable 
symptoms were developed, and my darling- son died be- 
fore I could get to him, which I tried to do, but was too 
late to see him. It was a sporadic case, for the disease 
was not prevailing here. It was a dreadful blow to us all, 
to see one cut oflf so suddenly and so young, particularly 
to his brother, who I found sick and much distressed on 
my return to Laurens. 

Marmaduke still lives to battle with the world, a stout 
healthy man, and very popular in the community in which 
he lives. 

9th. • Richard William, born in Milledgeville, Nov. 7th, 
1832. Full of life and hope, he went in the early summer 
of 1854 on a visit to his uncle for whom he was named, to 
St. Augustine and his relations in St. Mary's, and to 
grandmother's. It was the year of the dreadful epidemic 
of yellow fever which prevailed in Savannah and in many 
other places most fatally. 

His uncle Henry Floyd's family was in St. INIary's, where 
it was also prevailing, and he volunteered his services to 
assist in moving them into the country. He got quite wet 
in a shower of rain, but did not change his clothes until 
he rode six miles to his grandmother's where he was taken 
sick with the fever, which proved fatal. He died on the 
1 6th of October, 1854. not quite 22 years old. My family 
had all left for the up country after the greatest mortality 
in Savannah, and I thought my dear Richard safe where 
he was! But alas, another branch was lopped from the 
parent stem, and I saw my blessed child no more! He 
sleeps beside many relatives in the graveyard at Fairfield. 

loth. Zoe Decima was born at Macon, Ga., Jan. 8th, 
1836. My health being very delicate. I often said to her 
father that she had been sent to us to be a comfort to him, 
perhaps, when I should be no more—\)\\\ he was called 
away, and the solace of my life has been and is still, cen- 



39 

tered in this darling daughter, who still remains with me, 
to comfort and cheer me in my old age and weary pilgrim- 
age through life. Though a martyr to circumstances which 
cannot be controlled, she sustains a lovely character, re- 
fined by religion without ostentation or hyprocrisy, and by 
music, which elevates her pure soul above earth and lifts 
it up to heaven. Truly, I feel my dependence upon her, 
and often inquire of myself : "What should I do without 
her?" 

nth. James Thweatt was born in Macon, Aug. 15th, 
1838. In his education he had such advantages as were af- 
forded in the schools in Savannah and was but in his seven- 
teenth year when the Messenger Death called for him. He 
was with his brother Richard, and also had yellow fever, 
but was moved to Dr. Delaroches and recovered, but not 
to stay long with us. On Dec. 26th, 1855, he was attacked 
with intus-susception of the bowels, or rather died on that 
day after an illness of eight days. He wished to be laid on 
my bed, and as his last moments approached, while I hung 
over him, an agonized mother, he raised his arms, put 
them around my neck, and in that position with a prayer 
for him on my lips and in my heart, his spirit fled away to 
God who gave it. His voice was wonderfully sweet, fine 
musical talents, a fine looking youth with an exquisite 
mouth. He was very much devoted to me, being much 
with me. 

This is but a faint outline of my precious treasures. All 
save four have been taken from me by the hand that gave 
them. I alone am left of my large family of brothers and 
sisters, having neither them or parents to call by endearing 
appellations, waiting my time, until my Heavenly Father 
shall call me to join the many who have preceeded me to : 

"The Land of deepest shade 
Unknown to human thought ; 
The gloomy regions of the dead, 
Where all things are forgot." 



The Hamilton Family 



NOW I return to my husband's family regretting that 
I know so little of it to record : Mr. John Hamilton 
was born in Virginia in or near Petersburg, and 
married Miss Tabitha Thweatt of the same state. His 
mother before her marriage was Miss Sally Mitchell. On 
the Hamilton side their grandmother was Anne Everard. 
The family was of Scotch descent. 

Mr. and Mrs. John Hamilton had eleven children: ist, 
Marmaduke, born 1770, September 22nd, died in Sparta, 
Ga., Nov. i8th, 1832; 2nd, James Thweatt; 3rd, Thomas 
Peterson; 4th, Jack; 5th, George; 6th, Sally Thweatt; 7th, 
Fanny; 8th, Martha, who died young; 9th, Mary; loth, 
William ; nth, Everard. All were born in Virginia, except 
Everard, who was born about three months after the re- 
moval of his parents to Georgia, on the 4th of December, 
1791, near Sparta, Hancock County, Georgia. 

Father Hamilton had an only brother William, who 
never married; and one sister, Susa7i, who married Mr. 
Mabry of Virginia. They had three children, Susan, Joel 
and Louis. 

Father Hamilton settled near Sparta, Hancock County, 
Georgia, and had just finished a very nice building for his 
family, when that location was visited by a tornado, made 
memorable by its terrible ravages and great violence, de- 
stroying trees, houses and everything in its track. The 
family was away from home spending the day with a neigh- 
bor, all except Jack and Everard. There was but one 
small house left on the place, their new home having been 
blown away, none of it left standing. Some of its doors 
were found six miles ofif in an adjoining county. Cloth- 



/ 



41 

ing, books and papers were carried promiscuously away. 
Jack was much bruised, being struck by many things, and 
Everard carried into the air and lodged in a swamp about 
a quarter of a mile from where he was caught up by the 
whirlwind. When found, he was out of his senses, having 
been beaten by bricks from the falling chimney, near 
which he was attempting to pour water on the fire from a 
bucket, which it was feared might be blown about the 
house. This was a great loss, but none were killed, though 
all on the place were exposed to the pelting of a pitiless 
shower of hail after the violence of the wind had passed. 
This occurred April, 1805. 

In the fall of the same year, Father Hamilton was sud- 
denly attacked with paralysis, and ever after confined to 
his chair, being unable to walk. He died in 1821. 

His oldest son, Marmaduke, was born Sept. 22nd, 1770, 
and died in Sparta, Nov. i8th, 1832. He married Miss 
Elizabeth Scott, who died Dec. 25th, 1837. Sally married 
Major Robert Raines ; Fanny, Gen. David Blackshear of 
North Carolina ; Mary married Mr. George White Hayes 
of Virginia. Martha died young. Jack died a young man. 
Thomas Peterson married Miss Elizabeth Freeman ; they 
had three children, John, George Newton and Frances Su- 
san Anne Hull, the last adopted. George married Miss 
Elvisa Eavens, William married twice, Mary, and then her 
sister, Elizabeth Bryan, nieces of Gen. Blackshear. They 
had a large family. James died a bachelor. 

I have often heard members of the family speak of rela- 
tions by name of Mitchell, Thweatt, Sturduvant, Peterson, 
and others, but never knew how nearly allied, never hav- 
ing occasion to inquire into their history, until the oppor- 
tunity for information was lost. 

Mother Hamilton had a brother, "Uncle James 
Thweatt," whom all her children respected and loved. He 
had three sons and two daughters. Thomas, the eldest, 
was a good, pious, ugly man, married Miss Temperance 



42 

Turner of Sparta. Kinchen Peterson married . 

Eliza married Mr. Archibald Deveraux. She was left a 
widow, then married Mr. Michael Kenan. Mary married 
Gen. William Fliivcllen, after whose death she married 
Mr. Johnson, a Baptist preacher. By her first husband 
she had sons and an only daughter, Eliza, who was ad- 
dressed by George Pierce, now Bishop, but her parents 
objected for some trivial cause and the engagement was 
broken ofif. George married a woman six years his senior, 
and Eliza, never overcoming her early love, died broken- 
hearted from disappointment. 

Dr. James Thweatt married Miss Fanny Moore. They 
were an estimable couple and had but one child, Camilla, 
who married Mr. Daniel Searcy. They named one of their 
sons Everard Hamilton for my husband. 

Col. Plamilton rented a farm in Hancock County, eight 
miles from Sparta, Ga., where we lived two years, having 
invested all our cash in the purchase of negroes. Being 
W'ithout the means of furnishing provisions for his people 
without some sacrifice, he gave his handsome gold watch 
in exchange for coin and meat to begin with. He was suc- 
cessful in farming, for never was there a set of more will- 
ing and contented servants than surrounded us. Some 
were given by our parents, whose conduct excited a good 
influence over those which were purchased in Maryland. 
We were successful ; but my husband preferred a different 
kind of life, so he bought a place in Houston County, 
united his interest with his brother William, and we moved 
to Darien, Ga., where he entered into the cotton commis- 
sion business, also on joint account with his brother. We 
were very pleasantly situated in Darien, being on the most 
friendly terms with the community and had many kind 
social friends there ; but after two years, another opening 
was made for him, and he accepted the appointment of 
Secretary of State under the administration of Governor 
Troup, which brought us conspicuously before the public, 



43 

having- to entertain much company as a matter of course, 
in the position he then held. Being very popular, too, in a 
place where he had spent most of his younger days. Mill- 
edgeville was then the State Capital. 

During the sessions of the Legislature we entertained 
at dinner parties about sixty guests each week, at each din- 
ner twenty persons, until all the members and strangers 
visiting the city at the time were invited. After his elec- 
tion as Secretary of State he and his brother dissolved 
partnership, though my husband still kept up his place in 
Houston, and also his farm in Twiggs County. After 
serving the state for two years, poHtical opponents were 
so violent that difiference of opinions made variances in 
families, and some would not even speak to each other. 

In 1825 all the state officials, Governor and Staff, were 
defeated by the opposing politicians, and indsicriminately 
turned out of office. Col. Hamilton and family retired to 
their plantation in Twiggs County, but things changed 
about again in two years, and the state offices were filled 
by their former incumbents. During the two years of our 
residence in Twiggs County, from 1825 to 1827, we had 
much sickness in our family. In June, 1826, Col. Hamilton 
was appointed one of the commissioners to run the line be- 
tween Alabama and Georgia, and was accompanied by his 
servant, William Le Count, who was attacked with cholera 
morbus and died on the journey. Col. Hamilton did not 
return until Sept. 20th, on which day our son John was 
born. In January following he was appointed with rank of 
Lieutenant Colonel to command Troops to dislodge the 
Indians, who had become troublesome on the frontiers of 
the state, about Ocklocknee river. 

In November, 1827, we returned to Milledgeville, Col. 
Hamilton having been re-appointed to the office of Secre- 
tary of State, where he remained until November, 1833, at 
which time we found a new home in Macon, to which place 
we removed, entering again into the cotton commission 
business, by which he did not improve his fortune. 



44 



On the nights of the I2th and 13th of November. 1827, 
occurred the wonderful shower of stars, on which occasion 
many were much alarmed. 

Through the perfidy of those whom he had helped with 
his influence and name,, he became involved through his 
kindness and misplaced confidence, which they used im- 
properly, consequently, he had to sell all his negroes, two 
farms and three houses and lots in Macon, to extirpate 
himself from the difficulty into which he was innocently in- 
volved. This impoverished him, but he gave up all but his 
honestv and integrity. 

Then we came to live in Savannah, November, 1843. In 
January, 1847, he died, leaving a family of nine children 
and wife to lament his loss— and, oh, how quickly was he 
followed to the grave by his sons ! All were called away 
save one, who still survives as one of the props of my de- 
clining years. 

After our misfortune, it was still more necessary to live 
frugally, our mainstay having been taken away. My sons, 
who were prepared and already engaged for college, had 
to change their plans from receiving a finished education, 
to enter on a business course, in order to fit themselves 
for obtaining an honorable and independent living, and to 
help support our large family. At last, prosperity crowned 
their efforts ; we enjoved a competency and sometimes a 
few luxuries ; but it was of brief duration. Reverses fol- 
lowed, and privations, leaving us at times but a limited 
competency, and at times much less. And we are still 
scrambling up the rugged acclivities of Fortune, but only 
hope to ever see the summit of Plenty. I raise no mur- 
muring voice, but struggle on, until I descend mto the 
Dark Valley, where all regrets for the difficulties and pri- 
vations of this life shall trouble me no more. 
August 27th, 1888. 



The Hazzard Family 



FROM whom my mother, Miss Isabella Maria Floyd 
descended. Her father was Mr. Richard Hazzard 
of South Carolina. He descended from ancestors 
who came from England to America. 

The facts said to have been proven in England, were in 
substance as follows : "During the Crusade, a Duke of 
Charenette, then in Southern France, owing allegiance to 
the Kings of England, was slain, and his youngfest son 
alone was left. He with his mother, escaped to England, 
where he took the title attached to the English estates, and 
the mother married the King's physician, Dr. Fulke. At 
the civil wars of the Commonwealth, the then Lord or 
King, as a Loyalist, was dispossessed of his estates, and 
they were sold to a cousin, who had adhered to the Com- 
monwealth. On the restoration of the King, willing to 
conciliate as many of the landholders of the lost estates as 
possible, compensated our ancestors by the gift of a Colo- 
nel's Commission and 20,000 acres of land in Carolina in 
1715. His direct heir, it seems, Richard Hazzard, came to 
Carolina, took lands on or about Broad river. He had 
two sons, William and Richard. William's family we trace 
direct to Richard, the first settler. It would thus appear 
that the family in England had died out, and the succes- 
sors, if there were any, decided in our favor. William 
Hazzard of Carolina, no doubt descended from Richard, 
one of the two sons of Richard the elder, and on the 
mother's side, the Hazzard family descended from the 
Wiggs. There were three of them, Sarah Hazzard, who 
married Mr. Waight; Catherine, who married Mr. Bar- 
nard Elliott, and Mary. William W. Hazzard was their 



46 

only brother. My grandfather, Richard Hazzard, must 
have descended from the other brother William, but the 
family history seems ignorant of the fate of that brother 
or his family," 

I have often heard my mother say that her father de- 
scended on one side from the Wiggs, and there can be no 
doubt but his family and Major William Hazzard's were 
related for Mrs. Waight, his sister, applied by letter ad- 
dressed to "Cousin Richard," for my mother, when about 
twelve years old, wishing to adopt her as a daughter, she 
having no children, which she did, obtaining her father's 
consent, as he had married a second wife, a Miss Jannette 
McLeod, and had other children. Mrs. Waight acted the 
part of a kind mother to her young relative, who had been 
deprived of hers; sent her to school, and cared for her 
until she was otherwise provided for by her marriage with 
Mr. John Floyd. 

My grandfather Hazzard's first wife was Miss Phoebe 
Loftain of Florida. She had three children, Isabella Maria 
and twin sons, who both died young. One of them was 
named James, My grandfather's children by his second 
wife were William Horton, Eliza Smith, Richard and 
Mary. William Horton lived with my father. Gen, Floyd, 
until he married Miss Sarah Calder of Darien, Ga., having 
learned the carpenter's trade. Richard died on St. Simon's 
Island, while in the employ of Hamilton & Couper, as a 
clerk in their store. He was a line looking young man, 
about twenty-two when called away by death. Eliza Smith 
lived in my father's family until she married Mr. Joseph 
Crews, They had an only little girl, who died at an early 
age. Mary married Major Bacon of Liberty County, is 
dead, and left an only daughter, who is Mrs. Eraser, Wil- 
liam Horton Hazzard had several children, all now dead 
but his eldest son, Allen B. Hazzard, who lives at present 
in Savannah. (1879). 



47 

It is stated that there is a large estate in the Court of 
Chancery in Bristol, England, that belongs to American 
Hazzards. The tradition of the American Hazzard family 
runs so exactly with the legal history of the family in Eng- 
land, roaming beyond Cromwell to the English Dominion 
in France in the eleventh century, which leaves the con- 
clusion that we, the American Hazzards, are the true 
heirs. A few years ago there was much said about an 
estate of fifteen millions in Bristol, England, left to the 
Hazzards and wanting heirs to inherit it ; but the Hazzards 
in this country could not form an unbroken chain, there- 
fore the claim has never been presented, though much has 
been elicited of information about the family long latent, 
and above all, has created a great curiosity to know more 
of a house so old and respectable. 

Tradition, not altogether fabulous, has handed down to 
us some of the facts herein recorded. There are vacant 
places on the family tree yet unfilled, and they may never 
be. While Grandfather R. Hazzard was living in Florida 
his house and all his papers were burned by a set of out- 
laws going about the country and calling themselves 
^'Regulators' 

Isabella Maria was the only living child of Richard and 
Phoebe Hazzard, and was adopted and educated by Mrs. 
Waight of Beaufort, S. C. My grandmother had several 
sisters. One married a Mr. Hunter and went to Scotland 
to live. One married a Mr. Raine of Florida ; her daugh- 
ter Hannah Raine, married Capt. Mims, who with his 
family, had taken refuge in a fort as a place of safety, were 
surprised by Indians and all murdered. Prudence Loftain 
married Mr. Hartly, and he died, leaving her a widow with 
one son, but being a beautiful woman, she soon married 
again, Mr. Plummer, and had two children, James and 
Mary Rebecca, who lived in my father's family, going to 
school with us. Melinda married Capt. Charles Dames, 
who owned a vessel and traded between Florida and the 



48 

West Indies and Bahama Islands, residing with his family 
in Nassau, New Providence. He finally owned the place 
formerly occupied by Lord Dunmore, while Governor of 
the Island. They had a large family of sons and daugh- 
ters. Georgiana Augusta Dames, with whom I corre- 
sponded, was a finely educated woman and married Mr. 
Penry Williams and went with him to his home in Wales, 
England. They were quite wealthy. 

This is all I can, at present, gather about my dear moth- 
er's family on the mother's side. Her father's mother was 
Miss Wigg. I think her Christian name was Catherine. 
He had a niece by name of Mary Perry, who married and 
lived in St. Augustine, Dr. Fuentes, physician appointed 
by the King of Spain. Florida being then under his do- 
minion. Mrs. Fuentes made my mother and family a visit, 
and named her youngest daughter for my mother. Her 
eldest daughter married Judge Reid of South Carolina. 

What became of Del Querina Phillipa and her other 
children, I know not. James Plummer, son of my moth- 
er's aunt, was a few years since a member of the Legisla- 
ture, and there may be many relations scattered about, of 
which we know not. 

(From Mrs. Catherine Barnwell of Beaufort, S. C, dated 
March 8th, 1877) : 

"We have found among some title deeds belonging to 
one of the heirs, a grant of land from Lord Craven, 1712, 
to Richard Hazzard, and also his deed of gift to his son, 
Col. William Hazzard, whose descendants now claim the 
estate in England. The will of this Col. William Hazzard 
has been found in Charleston, in the Probate Courts. 
The St. Helena Church records the burial of Col. William 
Hazzard in 1757, aged J^ years, on his plantation, which 
was also in possession of one of the heirs. The stones 
have been carried ofif, but the burial ground is still pointed 
out. The marriage of Col. William Hazzard on record, 
first to Sarah Rose, whose son, William Hazzard, born in 



49 

1709, I suppose is your ancestor. Second, to Elizabeth 
Rossett, from whom Mary Hazzard, whose marriage in 
1738 to Edward Wigg, is also recorded, and from whom 
all the heirs in Beaufort are descended. There is also 
recorded the marriage of another daughter of Col. Wil- 
liam Hazzard to John McGilvery. These are the only 
children of Col. William Hazzard mentioned, as there are 
no others on record, though several children and grand- 
children of William Hazzard are also mentioned." (This 
statement is from the church record from Mrs. C. B.) 

The Tradition of our family speaks of Cromwell as the 
enemy and destroyer of the English branch of the family, 
that had been of note in Wells and Devon, England, and 
that the original Richard Hazzard, who founded the fam- 
ily in Carolina, came from Bristol with grants for large 
tracts, granted by King Charles ; and before the war 
(i860), I received a letter from one of the Narragansett 
Hazzards, inquiring into our family history, as there was 
a law suit in England, which would turn on the news from 
America. (This from Mr. R. W. Habersham of Augusta, 
Ga., one of the Hazzard heirs) : 

Narraifansett Hazzards 

(From Mrs. Wilkinson). 

Thomas Hazzard came to America from Wales in 1639: 

Robert, son of Thomas. 

George, son of Robert. 

Caleb, son of George. 

Dr. Robert son of Caleb. 

Capt. Charles, son of Dr. Robert. 

Charles C, son of Capt. Charles. 

Mary, daughter of Charles C. 

Capt. Charles, born 1767; died in Liverpool, 1810. 



Poems by Mrs. Mary Floyd Hamilton 



Speed, speed thou God of swift career, 

Nor wound me by a lingering flight ; 

For dead is all that once was dear, 

And darkness dwells where all was light. 

Sad memory but too oft recalls 

What least the heart desires to know; 

And the keener, heavier falls 

Where youthful joys did brightest glow. 

Fairfield, Camden County, Georgia, 
May 17th, 181 6. 

Would that I were some lovely rose, 
That on your breast I might repose, 
And like that fragrant, blushing blossom. 
Breathe my last sigh upon thy bosom. 
Or some loved evergreen were I, 
Sweet emblem of Fidelity, 
That when the rose should withered be, 
I still might linger near to thee. 
But neither evergreen or rose 
Shall my bouquets again compose, 
Your motto now is Columbine, 
"Forget-me-not" will still be mine. 

Fairfield, Ga., 1816. 

One languid smile from thy stern brow, 
Were pleasure to my heart. 
But fate decrees that pleasure now, 
And I must ever part. 



51 

An innocent and fond embrace 
My Harry's love confessed, 
And Death alone can e'er efiface 
The feelings it impressed. 

Fairfield, Ga., 1816. 



Translated from the Italian ly Mrs. Butler 

I planted in my heart one seed of love, 
Watered with tears and watched with sleepless care, 
It grew : And when I looked that it should prove 
A blessed tree and gracious harvest bear, 
Blossom nor fruit were there to crown my pain — 
Tears, care and labor, all have been in vain. 
And yet, I dare not pluck it from my heart, 
Lest with the deep struck root, my life depart. 



A White Butterfly Sipping the Dew from Flowers 
Planted by Zoe Decima H. 

Return ! Return, thou white winged visitor, 

And sip the dew from many a fragrant flower 

That grows luxuriantly in Zoe's bower. 

Thou seemest like her, a frail, but lovely thing: 

Ah ! here thou comest again on weary wing 

To dip thy bill in nature's honey-cups ! 

How timidly thou tremblest on that rose, 

Whose perfumed bud invites thee to repose ! 

Each leaf is wet with dew and sparkling shines 

Like polished diamonds from the richest mines. 

But oh, beware ! Frail tenant of an hour, 

Lest in these sweets, some deadly poisons lower, . 

Partake of some less beauteous flower I pray. 

And Heaven preserve thee "yet another day." 

But what is life to thee, frail butterfly? 

Thou spreadest thy wings, breathe the soft air and die. 

But brief as life may be, dark clouds will rise 



52 

To dim the sunshine of our early days, 
All flowers of Earth must fade away and die, 
But those that bloom Immortal in the sky, 
Will be the same through all Eter?tity. 

Savannah, Aug. 29th, 1857. 



To the Memory of Pepper, a Little Dog Belonging 
to R. W. H., July 7th, 1855 

Poor little Pepper ! we little thought 

Thy life would be so brief ; 

When late last night we vainly sought 

To give you some relief. 

The morning came : the sun rose bright 

Upon the dewy heath, 

Thy languid eyes looked on the light, 

But soon were closed in Death. 

Thy grateful heart beat high with joy 

When kindly words were spoken, 

And frisking round without alloy 

You owned the generous token. 

Thy Master's hands extend no more 

To feed or pat thy head 

He knows thy gambolings are o'er, 

His favorite Dog is dead. 

Thy bones are laid in a little grave 

Close by the garden gate, 

Where the rain drops weep from boughs that wave 

O'er the spot that marks thy fate. 

Savannah. 



Flowers 

These beauteous gifts speak from the heart, 
A language words cannot impart ; 
They tell of faithful, tender love, 
Such love as Saints might feel above. 



53 

Would that their fragrance could convey 

My feelings, and yet, not betray 

The secret that must ever lie 

Here, unrevealed until I die ! 

Each fragrant bud with love expands 

While tended by my youthful hands, 

Each leaf would say, this heart of mine 

Like the fond Ivy, clings to thine. 

Yet, no emotions must you air, 

You seem as gay and free from care 

As though no broken hopes or sorrow 

Could make you dread the coming morrow. 

No warm embrace you deign to give 

To nourish and to bid it live : 

O ! that its tendrils could entwine 

And bind this ardent heart to thine ! 

But Fate decrees that I should lose, 

And only hope for rest above, 

For here I have but to despair, 

But shall find peace and quiet there. 

Savannah, September, 1857. 



When the Sun Shines Low 



When the sun is low, and the evening breeze 

Whispers soft, sad notes through the dark green trees. 

When stars grow pale in the moon's silver light 

To think of thee then, is my greatest delight. 

Dost thou think of me? No, you never have thought 

Of the undying love you've unconsciously taught 

My young heart to feel : Yet forever with me 

The secret must rest ; and as aliens we'll be 

While on Earth, but in Heav'n our joys shall become 

Then to worship with angels before the white throne. 

I know you would love me if only you knew 

How fondly my heart was devoted to you, 



54 

I see you, I hear your sweet voice and adore, 
And yet, you regard me in kindness, no more. 

what was love made for if 'tis not the same 
In joy and in sorrow, in glory and shame? 

1 know not, I ask not, if guilt's in thy heart, 

I but know that I love thee whatever thou art. 

Savannah, August 22nd, 1857. 



Music 



Your plastic fingers touched the magic keys 
And Heavenly music floated on the breeze : 
But sweeter yet, the choral voices rise 
To waft the sacred incense to the skies. 
But one above the rest salutes my ear! 
And sinks deep in my heart ; but while I hear 
The notes that wake my tender sympathy 
I sigh and feel that they were not for me! 

Savannah, August, 1857. 



The Bachelor Button 



I send you now this little token 

Perhaps 'twill please you more, 
Than fragrant rose, or lilly broken 

From Love's luxuriant bower. 
Will you preserve it for my sake 

And think of her who gave it, 
And with it pray the emblem take 

And on thy heart engrave it? 
I have sent you before, pinks, lilies and roses. 

Geraniums, carnations and other fine posies, 
But never before could I grace my bouquet 

With a Bachelor Button so handsome and gay. 

Savannah, 1857. 



55 

The Offer 

This loving heart, that knows no guile, 

I offer now to thee, 
Thy blushing cheek and winning smile 

Are treasured gems to me. 

Will you accept the gift that ne'er 

Was offered to another? 
I've vainly tried (a task severe), 

My ardent love to smother. 

Thy beauteous image on my heart 
Is stamped in lines of love, 

On Earth, I cannot with it part, 
Nor e'en in realms above. 

But tell me if your love for me 

Half equals mine for thee, 
And if it does the Saints above 

Might envy us such joy. 

My barque is launched upon the wave, 

The Pilot at the helm, 
But thou alone canst guide and save, 

Or with ruin overwhelm. 

Savannah, 1857. 



The Orange Blossom 

I send you now my favorite blossom 
Fresh gathered from its native tree, 
Accept and wear it in thy bosom. 
And while it rests there, thiiik of me! 
I've pressed it to my own fond heart 
And thought to let it wither there, 
But willingly, I with it part 
With many a sigh and love-dropped tear. 



56 

But why, you ask me, should I weep 

O'er anything so frail as this? 

Why waste my tears and sighs and sleep 

On what imparts no real bliss? 

'Tis because 'tis love's ownfiower. 

The silent emblem of a heart 

That owns thy magic winning power 

And solace for my griefs impart. 

The vestal cups are overfliowing 

With tender messages for you, 

But not to thee are these worth knowing- 

No joy or love returns to vie. 

Savannah, April ist, 1858. 



On Receiving a Bouquet 

The beauteous flowers you gave, 
On what shrine shah I place them? 
There is a charm in every leaf 
And love revealed in every bud, 
And though their life be very brief 
Their fragrance is well understood. 
They tell of love, undying love. 
Such love as angels feel above, 
And could such love to me be given 
Mv time on Earth would be a Heaven. 



Savannah, 1850. 



I have no language to impart 
The deep drawn feelings of my heart ; 

It is not gratitude alone 

To which my trembling heart gives way. 



1850. 



57 



Loved friends forever ! My hour is come ; 

I must not linger from my home, 

No ray of brightness gleams for me, 

No hopeful rainbow do I see. 

Naught but the somber clouds of night, 

Are ever hovering in my sight. 



Music 

You have played on my heart with fingers of love, 
And the music was sweeter than strains from above, 
As pure as the zephyr, just sunk to repose, 
As fresh as the dew on the newly blown rose. 
Like the breathing of Love on the Harp of the Wind, 
It thrilled all my soul, brought peace to my mind. 
Though varied the notes, one more than the rest 
Sank deeply and sadly into my calm breast, 
'Twas so soft and so low, and its cadence so sweet, 
I fancied I soon with an angel would meet. 
Though far from the scenes so enchantingly dear, 
I feel their soft influence has followed me here ; 
The notes that you touched are vibrating still, 
On my heart's tender chords with an exquisite thrill 
Of these hallowed moments I dream while I sleep. 
But to "Day's" dull realities wake but to weep. 
O ! would that my life were one dream of the past. 
And Eternity brings us together at last. 

Savannah, April, i860. 



Farewelll 

Farewell ! a sad, a long farewell. 
My kind, my noble, gentle friend! 
To say adieu sounds like the bell 
That rings the solemn funeral knell 
Of Death of all on Earth to me, 
Save the one joy of loving thee. 



58 

We may not meet, but my last sigh 
Shall emanate in thoughts of thee, 
And may some angel spirit bear 
My dying wish to thy lone ear, 
That its protecting arms might throw 
Around thee, guarding thee below, 
And when the knee in prayer you bend, 
Invoke a blessing on your friend. 

Savannah, August, 1862. 



To Mrs. S. L. H. 



There is not an atom that floats on the breeze 

Nor sunbeam that shines on the dew-sprinkled trees, 

There is not a drop in the deep rolHng sea, 

But was formed by His hand and commanded to be. 

The rainbow that forms its bright arch above 

This beautiful Earth, as an emblem of Love, 

Was sent to assure us of promises true. 

And we ever should keep the bright prospect in view. 

The dark clouds of sorrow have over you swept, 

And your heart big with sorrow in anguish hath wept, 

But look upward, be cheerful, submit to His power, 

There's a bright day ahead, tho' the prospects now lower. 

Let your vision extend over Jordan's cold stream, 

Where your Master is waiting His pledge to redeem. 

You will follow dear frie7ids to His mansion above 

And with them partake of His undying love ; 

The fruits, herbs, and flowers, germinate and expand. 

All, all are the work of an Almighty hand. 

And surely He will not feel less for the sorrow 

Of those whom He values "much more than a sparrow." 

Then dry up your tears, my sister, most dear, 

While one hand afflicts thee, the other will cheer, 

And when your last sun shall sink down in the West, 

May you be with your Savior in Glory at rest. 



59 

If my pen could write from my feelings of heart, 
How sweetly I'd whisper soft notes and impart 
The comfort you need in this dark trying hour, 
But words from a mortal are feeble and poor. 
Then look to your Savior who showed us the way, 
And now dwells in glorious and undying Day. 

Savannah, January, 1863. 



Lines written by Dr. Daniel McCormick, of the United 
States Army, who died at St. Mary's, Ga., and inscribed on 
his tombstone at St. Mary's : 

Here lies unconscious of the friendly tear 
A youth adorned with many a manly grace ; 
Wit. valor, genius, mourn your offering here 
Withered and cold in cruel Death's embrace. 
Stream on ye sorrows of the brave ! and flow 
The fragrant tear from tender Pity's eye, 
But thou Religion, bid the floweret blow. 
And bloom triumphant in a purer sky. 



Valentine, February 14th. 1864 



Go on soft wings, my little Dove, 

And bear this message to my love, 

Enter his calm retreat 

And there the following words repeat : 

A lady sends me to impart 

The secret of her truthful heart ; 

When first her halls your presence graced, 

E'en then upon her heart was traced 

The image that for many years 

'Mid the world's changes, griefs and cares 

Has never been effaced ; but still 

Remains, unbidden by her will. 



6o 

'Twas not by any artful measure 

That you secured this little treasure, 

But by some process undefined 

You gained such influence o'er her mind, 

That all the waters of the sea 

Could not efface your memory. 

O ! send by me some sweet love token, 

To her whose heart is almost broken, 

Consent to be my Valentine, 

Of this secret lady-love of thine. 

Confide to me thy manly heart 

And cheerfully will I depart : 

A fragrant rose-leaf carefully, 

The precious gem I will convey, 

And place it in a casket rare 

It will be fondly cherished there ; 

Tie round my neck a billet-doux 

And I'll away, adieu, adieu ! 

Death 

O ! Death, thy sting is hard to bear, 

It fills my soul with cringing fear, 

To think that in thy icy arms 

The brightest must resign her charms, 

And no relentings canst thou feel, 

Thy heart is made of hardened steel ! 

Thy eyes gloat o'er thy victim's pain, 

Who would thy pity ask in vain. 

And even to the latest gasp 

Firmly thou boldest thine iron grasp. 

Stern and unmoving as the sun. 

Until thy dreadful work is done. 

And then on dark-hued clouds you hover 

To dash the joys of maid or lover, 

Or part the husband from the wife, 

Or crush the rose-buds of their life, 



6i 

Relentless Death, of whose dread reign, 
The world is sick and all complain. 
Thy time will come, thy power expire, 
When Earth and sea are wrapped in fire ! 
Hell, awful grave, and Death shall be 
All "Swallowed up in Victory!" 

Savannah, 1862. 



Hope 

Hope ! thou frail anchor on which I have leaned 
And from thy soft influence true happiness gleaned, 
Like the rainbow that spans the blue arch of the sky 
Thy beautiful vision has faded away. 

And dark clouds of sorrow have taken its place 
And in my sad heart no joy can you trace. 

1 feel that I have been spellbound by some power, 
And bowed to the Earth like a storm, crushed flower, 
O ! shine once again on the young pilgrim's way, 
And lead her to Heaven and Glory on High, 
Where no disappointment shall ever again 

Arise to cause sorrow, or anguish or pain. 

Savannah, 1868. 



Death of John C. F. Hamilton, Who Die 3 at Bellevue, Camden Co., 
Ga.. June 6th, 1821, A^red 18 Months 

Relentless Death ! Couldst thou not spare 
One to his mother's breast, so young, so fair, 
That e'en the dew-drop's lustre, 
Grew dim beside the crystal tear 
That his deep blue eyes shed. 
His cheek was softer than the eiderdown. 
His lips like bursting buds of fragrant rose 
Exhaling sweetness of the morning air, 
But O ! upon this beauteous flower thy hand 



62 

Of blackness too was laid ! Thy firm hold 

No mortal power could break ; 

But though it withered in thy icy grasp 

The immortal Spirit thanks thee that the deed is done 

And angels hail its flight to Heaven, 

Its final resting place. 

February 21st, 1837. 



To- 



I've seen you in the busy throng 

As carelessly you passed along, 

And sometimes, too, your steps were traced 

But, by the crowd were soon effaced. 

Love dies not like the Summer flower, 

Nor withers like the Autumn leaves, 

Nor freezes in bleak winter's showers, 

But in the Spring again returns. 

Then, e'en against Hope, returns my love 

And all my warm afifections prove. 

O ! That it were my happy lot, 

To share with thee an humble cot, 

To be thy loved and loving wife 

Is the ambition of my life ; 

Then quickly come and do not tarry 

To your own loving, blue-eyed Mary. 



Ne M'Oubliez Pas 

On emblematic flowers inscribed 
A volume, speaking from the heart. 
Was sent to you while Hope inspired 
The thought that it would joy impart. 
The sweet bouquet was not returned 
Yet, no acknowledgment expressed 
The love that once so lightly burned 
Within your noble manly breast. 



63 

How can I brook this cold disdain 

You manifested for these leaves? 

They were not offered to give pain, 

But gild the chain that memory weaves. 

Though joys of past events transpire 

And love no more the heart inspire, 

Yet, 'tis a painful, crushing thought 

To be by those we love, forgot. 

I've heard of Lethe's fabled stream, 

It seems to be so like a dream 

Of that oblivious thoughts to drink, 

And never more of me to think. 

No kind farewell before you left. 

Not e'en a word of message sent. 

But memories of the past may yet 

Forbid that you should e'er forget 

I cannot bear to even think 

That in the waste you would sink 

Of dull forgetfulness ! The past is sad ! 

But to forget would drive me mad; 

Now, farewell, and may God protect 

And teach you never to forget. 

Savannah, 1875. 



*Tis Not a House, Nor Made by Hands 

'Tis not a house, nor made by hands. 

Impervious to moth and rust. 

But where theives may break through and steal 

And soon will fall away to dust. 

'Tis not a mansion in the house 

Of God, who ever reigns above. 

Where Jesus has prepared a place 

For all who gain His precious love. 

It is a house of happiness 

Where joys on every side, 



64 

Where generous love presides to bless 
All who beneath its roof abide. 
The indigent, the humble poor, 
Are welcome to its ample halls ; 
Nor would the owner close a door, 
But wipe the mourner's tear that falls. 
But Fortmie, fickle as the wind 
And heartless, as bleak as winter's ice. 
Decrees that we must shortly find 
Some humbler residence than this. 
Homeless and shelterless we go 
Out on the world's unpitying stage — 
A place of rest I do not know, 
I cannot turn another page. 

Savannah, June, 1876. 



Feirewell 

A long farewell, my dear, 

And all good angels greet you, 

I have a strong foreboding, here 

I e'er again shall meet you. 

Time's circling course has hurried on 

The hour that carries thee away. 

And soon, too soon, thou must be gone 

/ would, but ca7inot bid thee stay. 

Again farewell ! Yet to my heart, 

Dear, shall thy memory be, 

Tho' thou art called, hence to depart. 

My thoughts shall ever follow thee. 

Farewell, farewell ! nor e'er forget, 

The heart that loved you dearly. 

Which doomed to helpless passion, yet 

Loves you not less sincerely. 

But I, who Fate decrees to love. 

To love and yet despair, 



65 

Can hope alone for rest above 
And peace and quiet there. 
But Hope unfolds her golden wings, 
And whispers to my trusting heart, 
^he promise of your safe return 
To drive the shadows far away, 
That have enshrined our earlier day. 

Savannah, 1874. 



Departure of the Old Year, I875 

In the soft twilight of the dying year, 

Comfort I thought to find in retrospection, 

But hope and joy are so o'erwhehned with care 

That in their wake follows no satisfaction. 

No field of beauty stretches to my sight, 

No pleasant landscape beckons me away. 

No friendly hand is laid, tho' e'er to light 

To call my wandering senses home and pray. 

A few dull hours at least must pass 

Ere dawns a brighter morn on all the earth 

Save on the lonely spot where I, alas ! 

In sorrow ever draw my weary breath. 

But like the waning year, my visions fly, 

In welcome to the sun that soon shall rise 

To shed its glory on my weary way. 

And bid me dry my weary weeping eyes. 

But the old year is fading fast away 

Amid the shadows of declining day, 

But soon the "Sun of Righteousness" shall rise 

Eclipsing with its beams all earthly things. 

Savannah, Dec. 31st, 1875. 



66 



The Gardenia 

One morning early in the month of June, 

I left my bed while it was very soon, 

And to the half-closed window I was drawn 

By fragrant odors in the early dawn. 

I tried to find the cause of my delight, 

When on the window sill there met my sight 

A full blown Gardenia, the first flower 

Unfolded to the light in our own bower. 

At once the thought came rushing to my mind 

That I no lovelier, purer gift could find, 

As farewell offering to my only son. 

When he should leave his home at half-past one. 

I gathered the sweet flow'r and very near, 

A heart-leaf placed ; most precious souvenir 

Of one who sleeps beneath the silent mound. 

Sometimes I fancy that his spirit breathes 

Among these dearly loved and cherished leaves. 

These thoughts a calm, a softening influence shed 

Upon my heart, whence pleasure long has fled. 

And though no word, or sound, or whisper mild, 

\ feel a sweet communion with my child, 

And pray that when my time may come to die, 

We shall be re-united in the sky. 

Savannah, June 2nd, 1880. 



The Hour Glass 

Old man ! Old man ! with the silver hair, 
What hold you in your trembling hand? 
Come here, come here, my little dear, 
And see this glass with shining sand. 
What is it, father, that glitters so, 
When e'er you move it to and fro? 
Sit down, my child, and I will tell 
What seems to please your fancy well. 



67 

Behold these bright grains as they pass 
Through the small opening in the glass ; 
They represent the moments given 
To mortals to prepare for Heaven. 
Watch well; they are the sands of life, 
And quickly do they glide away, 
And frail the brittle casket is 
That shelters them from day to day. 
If cracked and broken these bright gems 
Scattered and lost will be 
Unless some guardian angel's hands 
Collects them for Eternity. 
And though the vase may broken be, 
Within whose walls these treasures rest 
The soul, their emblem, cannot die, 
But saved in Heaven, forever rests. 

Sunday, Oct. 13th, 1875. 



A Chjkracter 

No costly diamonds glitter on her hands. 

Her arms encircled by no jewelled bands; 

But traced in Heavenly lines upon her heart, 

Graces and virtues that no wealth impart. 

Upon her head no diadem she wears, 

But that grand crown of age, her own gray hairs. 

Smiles that exhale from purest thoughts within, 

Invite to love and live apart from sin. 

No haughty bearing marks her Christian mien. 

But simple as a child's her manners seem. 

Bidding each one her happiness to share 

And like herself her Master's yoke to bear. 

Among the poor she mingles in her way. 

Along life's checkered paths from day to day ; 

Encouraging with hope the meanest soul, 

"To follow Christ repent, and be made whole." 

Her gentle voice, soft as the Turtle Dove, 

Strikes on your ear with melody and love. 



68 



Valentine February 14th. 1878 

Around my heart a chain you wove, 
I thought its links were formed of Love; 
It seemed so full of joy and gladness 
That never once I dreamed of sadness. 
As time wore on its golden bars 
Pressed heavy with the weight of years ; 
And though not one, by me was broken, 
My confidence was somewhat shaken. 
I spread my wings and hovered o'er 
The places that by you of yore, 
But not a shadow would be traced, 
Your foot-prints even were effaced. 
The gorgeous rainbow soon will fade 
Of evanescent tints 'tis made. 
To sparkle in the Sun's bright rays, 
That struggles through the misty haze. 
True friendship rarely can be found, 
And Love is still an "Empty Sound !" 
Again will come the promised bow, 
But ne'er again a broken vow. 

Savannah, Ga. 

If still my heart is wholly thine, 
Accept me for your Valentine. 



To Mrs. H 



Let your poor stricken heart be still, 
Nor murmur at your Father's will ; 
For He who did in kindness give, 
In mercy also will receive. 
Trust to His care, your little Dove, 
He holds her in His mighty arms. 
There sheltered by His tender love 
Under the shadow of his wings, 



69 

To Him who condescends to take 

The purest offerings you could make ; 

From Him who died your soul to save, 

Would you your precious child withhold? 

Farewell, dear child, on whose young head 

So many anxious tears were shed, 

We sever, but to meet again, 

Free from all sorrow, grief and pain. 

Lie sweetly on your Savior's breast, 

In holy and unbroken rest, 

There lovely bud, grow and expand 

In fragrance in a happier land, 

Two cherubs gathered from one flock 

To grace your Heavenly Father's throne 

Should draw your heart to that bright home, 

From which no scattered sheep will roam. 

August 15th, 1880. 



The Wish 

I wish I had a little house. 

Without a roach, or rat, or mouse, 

And food enough laid up in store 

For my own wants and a little more. 

To share with those who are without, 

And on the highways go about, 

Seeking the cold world's Charity, 

And oft-times sharing scantily. 

O ! had I but a little house 

And but one room to spare ; 

Where my dear children all could come, 

My aged heart to cheer. 

Once more to see them all around 

In happiness and love, 

There could no greater joy be found 

Than this sweet meeting prove. 



70 

O ! had I but one "Fairy Wish," 

To calm my anxious heart, 

I'd freely give all other wealth 

To welcome those I love. 

My heart expands in ardent Hope 

That, tho' my sun be low, 

Heaven may yet smile upon my wish, 

And this kind boon bestow. 

Savannah, Aug. 22nd, 1880. 



Valentine February 14th, 188I 



This is the day decreed by Fate 

When every bird should choose its mate; 

And birds of every hue and form 

Should to this ancient law conform. 

My plumage is not very gay 

And my profession, should I say? 

Is neither lucrative or winning, 

For all my life I have been spinning! 

I cannot count the years I've spun, 

Since first my early life begun, 

And, therefore, with some spinner's aid 

To weave the threads that I have made. 

Dear lady, I appeal to you 

Because your heart is good and true ; 

I'll find the warp and you the woof — 

And of my constancy give proof, 

If you'll consent to be my wife, 

And share my home and humble life, 

I'll from now even to the beginning 

Transfer the love and name of ''Spinning:' 

Please answer. 
Addressed to Miss L. D., Savannah, Ga. 



71 

Answer 

I did not know that birds could spin, 
And thus to shackle them were sin; 
I cannot link my life with one 
Whose bragging life was ever done. 
Many would gladly weave your thread, 
And without much persuasion ived 
A man who has so fine a trade, 
By which a fortune might be made, 
But I've built "Castles in the Air," 
And cannot be the happy Fair: 
I'd rather have a "Turtle Dove" 
And listen to his voice of love 
Than live with spinning all my days 
In dust, and motes, and cotton haze. 
I care not for an humble lot 
Nor wish to own a little cot. 
By this time you will surely see 
That you are not the bird for me ! 



Valentine to Miss L. D. No. 2 

Though mistakes will oft arise, 

How very great was my surprise 

That someone else would use my name 

To elcA^ate their dubious Fame, 

And a greater shock still to my pride 

That they should ask you to be bride 

To one who never dreamed that spi7tning- 

Would be thought worthy of your winning. 

And more than all to be refused. 

And otherwise so roughly used ; 

For Turtle Dove! I would as soon 

"Be a Dog, and bay the moon," 



72 

Construct your "Castles in the Air," 
Above the humming wheels of care, 
Enjoy with your sweet cooing Dove 
The baseless fabric of your love. 

February 23rd, 1881. 

To Mrs. T 



Assiduously my hands have w^ove 

These precious souvenirs of love, 

To bring the scenes of days gone by. 

Back to your vivid memory. 

Of one whose tenderness and care 

Have made each little gem more rare, 

Adorning once the artless form, 

Which never dreamed of sin or harm. 

But when her Savior bid her come, 

Obediently she left her home 

And sweetly laid her down to sleep. 

No more on earth to sigh or weep — 

Solemn petitions for the dead 

From different churches were being said 

And the "Angelus bells" were ringing 

A requiem for departed souls ; 

When her pure spirit took its flight 

To realms of everlasting light ! 

With child-like prayer upon her lip 

"This night I lay me down to sleep" — 

In after years, as Time flies by, 

Think of your friend in sympathy 

Whose hands have tried to blend together 

The sacred wishes of a mother 

Whose soul, like circles, have no end, 

But ever round and round they tend, 

Till Death breaks off the brittle thread 

And lays us with the sleeping dead. 

April 15th, 1881. 



73 

Thou hast gone into Eternity 
Ne'er to return again, 
To fill us with anxiety, 
Or inflict distressing pain. 

To many, thou hast left a sting 
Unhealed by human art 
For Time no remedies can bring 

To a sad and broken heart. 



The Heart-Leaf 



The flowers your loved hands planted 

Now mingle once again with earth; 

They blossomed in beauty many years. 

But now are faded, dead and wasted: 

Yet upon the spot your body covers, 

Some guardian angel ever hovers, 

To guard the precious dust that lies 

Concealed so long from mortal eyes. 

And though the sounding billows dash 

In mournful notes upon the shore, 

No sound so sad to my poor heart 

As that which says ''To meet no more.'' 

O ! no, it cannot, cannot be 

That I no more your form can see. 

The links that bind us here in love 

Unite us still in realms above. 

From the dead roots of my heart-leaf 

Some tender buds will gently creep. 

And grow and spread in fragrance round, 

Though from them comes no voice or sound, 

But when I press them to my heart 

A soothing influence they impart, 

One plant you saved from many gathered 

For my relief when sick and troubled, 



74 

The dew was still upon the stalk 

When in the garden near the walk 

You planted it to live or die, 

And many times we passed it by. 

It grew and flourished and I thought 

I would not have the token brought 

To soothe me in my hours of sorrow, 

Not knowing what would come "to-morrow. 

So, took the precious treasure up, 

And planted it in an earthen cup, 

And put it where my thoughts could dwell 

On one my fond heart loved so well. 

How oft I fancied it had spoken, 

Until the mystic spell was broken 

By intervening sights and sounds. 

The winter's cold had nipped its trunk, 

And down into the ground it sunk ! 

It made me sad to think that ne'er 

A green leaf would again appear. 

But, with the genial warmth of spring 

A few bright leaves appear, to bring 

Back to my heart a pleasing theme, 

Of one who sleeps beneath the tomb. 

But from the caverns of the grave 

Are those whom Jesus died to save ; 

Shall come forth at the trumpet's sound 

From rolling seas and under ground 

Before the throne in Judgment stand 

And hear their doom at His command. 

Among the rest there we shall be, 

To meet our final Destiny. 

But on Time's brink, which lingering yet, 

These memories I shall ne'er forget. 

Immortal be the sweet heart-leaf 

That was procured for my relief! 

Savannah, Sunday, May 15th, 1881. 



75 



The leaves that tremble on the trees 

Moved by the gentle evening breeze, 

Some fragile bud may cause to drop 

From the strong limbs that were its prop. 

No hidden beauties sending forth 

To adorn both Heaven and Earth, 

But concealed in the casket lies, 

No more on earth again to rise. 

Such, often is the cruel fate 

Of those whom "Envy loves to hate," 

And driven in the obscure gloom 

Down to a sad and early tomb. 

The tender buds can never feel 

The blows the evening breezes deal. 

But the frail mortal bends beneath 

The influence of vindictive breath, 

Who falls from sensitiveness a prey 

Haunting his soul from day to day. 

Until the friendly hand of Death 

Requires his painful, weary breath. 

He could not justify his cause 

Without transgressing Righteous laws, 

For never an unholy thought 

Entered a heart with godness fraught. 



Oh, plant no flowers above my head 
To mock me in my lowly bed. 

Ext. 

Loved friends, adieu ! my hour is come, 
I must not linger from my home, 
No ray of brightness gleams for me. 
No hopeful rainbow do I see. 
Naught but the sombre clouds of night 
Are ever hovering in my sight. — E. T. 



7^ 

Written for Eisie F 



I came, sent by the will of Fate, 

As one whose birth was out of date ; 

Cast on a tender mother's breast, 

But even there found little rest. 

For unrelenting- Death had come, 

To call my loving guardian home — 

Like a pale roseleaf, which a storm 

Had rudely beaten, bruised and torn, 

How varied was my early life 

In alternating joy and strife ; 

Yet through these changing scenes I strove, 

Assisted by the hand of Love, 

To meet the Destiny assigned. 

By God, and to His will resigned. 

Hoping to see His glorious face, 

I pray to daily grow in grace. 

And win at last a brighter crown 

Than all of Earth has ever known. 

Savannah, April 23rd, 1882. 



My Precious Children 



Years have rolled on, since first your feeble voice 
Caused your fond mother's heart to rejoice. 
And thus I spoke unto your father, dear, 
This precious babe will need a mother's care, 
I feel that I shall probably not live 
The necessary care and love to give. 
It is a precious gift, sent from above, 
To cheer your loneliness and share your love. 
This little one, within your arms I place. 
To comfort you when you no longer trace 
In lines of love, one feature of my face — 
Faithful and true has been my love for you, 



77 

Which needs no further evidence to prove 

Than to your guardianship and tender care, 

I leave those gems to me so very dear. 

Cherish and love them for my sake, I pray, 

Teach them to think of me as "gone away," 

Who never will again to Earth return — 

These little children, that our Heavenly Father gave, 

I pray thee, train on Earth for Heaven; 

Their souls prepare for that bright crown of Life, 

To shine forever in unfading Light. 

X Zoe Decima — 



Death of a Canary Bird 



Poor little bird ! Thy thrilling voice 

No more shall greet my ear; 

Nor make my ravished heart rejoice, 

When overwhelmed with care. 

To thee each coming day was bright, 

No want or cares to dread; 

But Death and coldness came at night, 

Ere morn thy life had sped. 

Like a shroud the snow fell o'er thy bower. 

The icicles hung on the wall, 

While under them wept the fading flowers 

As if shedding their tears o'er thy pall. 

Thy lonely cage looks lonelier still, 

Since silence reigns within; 

For notes like thine will never fill 

Its gilded walls again. 

Savannah, Ga. 



78 

On the Death of a Humming Bird 

Poor little bird ! Thy clays are past, 

When sitting in the evening blast 

A warrior was passing by, 

And thy beauties quickly attracted his eye. 

Thy neck was circled with a changeful hue, 

It was sometimes purple and sometimes blue. 

The rest of thy body was of a dark green ; 

Such beauties were thine as would grace a queen. 

Thy brilliant black eyes all at once became dim, 

For Death was thy portion in the middle of spring. 

Thy cup was full : up to the brim, 

For thou w^ert shot down in the middle of spring. 

Thou shalt never again sip sweets from the flower, 

That luxuriantly blooms on the woodbine bower. 

Oft hast thou tasted of that lov'd flower, 

But now, hast thou quit the world and bower. 

No more charms has the world for thee, 

You have gone to be forever free. 

For cruel man is no friend, I see — 

A pistol ball has finished thee. 

Farewell to you all ! I bid adieu 

To mother and father, and sisters, too, 

For man is bold and shoots so true, 

That my heart blood is shed, adieu, adieu ! 

These lines written by Mrs. Isabella M. Floyd. 



The Old Grey Goose 

"Go run and tell Aunt Sally 
The old grey goose is dead — 
The one she was saving to 
Make herself a bed." 

The old grey goose is gone 

To the land of the feathered tribe ; 



79 

But she will not be alone, 

For there, many geese abide. 

The down plucked from her breast, 

It was so soft and white, 

That an infant's head might rest 

Upon its folds so light — 

Aunt Sally shed a tear 

When she heard that her goose was dead, 

For she then began to fear 

She would never get her bed, 

For the kind old goose intended 

To leave a golden prize, 

To buy Aunt Sally's bed, 

But in the meantime dies. 

And the golden Egg, so cherished. 

Was never brought to light : 

But like some hidden treasure 

Obscured in endless night, 

Then dear old goose, farewell ! 

I shall have no feather bed, 

On which to lay my weary limbs 

And rest my aching head. 

(Written for Emily's benefit.) 



To Z. D. H- 



This book of rhymes at other times 

I would not let you see ; 

But when I'm gone, and you're alone. 

They'll make you think of me 

When near the door, in fun or love, 
We spent some happy hours, 
But they are o'er, and we no more 
Shall meet in earthly bowers. 



So 



Think oft of her, whose no more 

Shall sound in joy or grief, 

And let a tear of love, not care 

Fall on this fragile leaf — 

This, too, shall fail, grown old and stale, 

And mingled with the dust, 

But the pure soul by Christ made whole, 

Shall ne'er grow old or rust. 

July 1 6th, 1883. 



The Chained Dog 

At early down my tyrant rose 

And chained my supple limbs. 

To make me fiercer on the foes 

That might the lot invade. 

How very cruel is my fate ! 

In this hot, sultry weather. 

But he, the wretch, to whom I plead, 

Is master altogether — 

The neighboring dogs in sympathy 

Behold my sad, sad case. 

From earliest sunrise until dark. 

From morn till night I bark. 

One trait I know I do possess, 

And that is courage true. 

But how shall I ever express 

The feats that I can do? 

The hens upon the fatal morn 

Were scrambling for some grains of corn. 

They cackled ; and the plan was laid. 

That I should be unchained. 

But O, how hard is my sad plight. 

How galling is my chain, 

Confined from early morn till night, 

In misery and pain. 



8i 



No cooling draught of water given 

To cool my parched tongue, 

But on my stinted rope I'm driven. 

With rude harsh words along. 

No heed is given to my complaints, 

But if I whine or bark, 

Quite disregarded are my wants, 

Making my life more dark. 

Come Death, and close my weary life, 

Which brings no peace to me, 

For all on earth is only strife, 

Poor Dog, no joy ! no Liberty ! 

Savannah, 1882. 




Gen'l John Floyd's Will 



In the name of God, Amen ! 

I, John Floyd of Bellevue place, in the County of Cam- 
den and State of Georgia, being of sound mind and health, 
but aware of the uncertainty of life, doth make, ordain and 
declare this instrument, which is written with my own 
hand and subscribed by the same to be my last Will and 
Testament, revoking all others, and the following instruc- 
tions to my Executrix and Executors or Administrators, 
are intended to be so explicit and clearly expressed as to 
avoid all forced constructions or misapprehension of the 
equitable intention of the distribution of my property, not 
specially otherwise conveyed or disposed of previous to 
my decease. It is therefore confidently expected, and 
earnestly requested, that my executors hereafter named 
(or representatives), will in good faith conform to the fol- 
lowing directions, to-wit : 

In primus . All my just debts are to be paid as 

soon as practicable, and the legacies hereinafter be- 
queathed (if any), are to be discharged as soon as circum- 
stances will permit. 

Item . To my dearly beloved wife, Isabella Maria 

Floyd, I give and bequeath the following named property 
in land and negroes in lieu of dower or any other claim or 
any other claim upon my estate, to-wit : Bellevue planta- 
tion, upon which I now reside (being part of a tract of 
land originally granted to Roger Kellsal, and bounded on 
the east by a partition line separating Fairfield tract from 
it, which dividing line was at my request run in the year 
1830 by William Ashley, Esquire, then the County Sur- 
veyor. The other boundary of the Bellevue tract so desig- 



83 

nated from Fairfield are shown by the plat of the whole 
survey), with all the lands, tenements, tenants, buildings, 
improvements and appurtenances thereunto belonging, 
with all and singuar my household and kitchen furniture, 
all my books, boats and one-sixth part of my stocks of 
every description, and also my property in the town of 
St. Mary's, in the County and State aforesaid, consisting 
of two improved lots joining each other, and known by 

the plat of the town by the numbers , with all 

the buildings, fences and improvements appertaining 
thereto, together with all my household and kitchen fur- 
niture belonging to same, and the following negro slaves 
by name, to-wit : old black Sally, her sons Jack and 
George, Isaac (Carpenter), Sylvia, Celia, Emanuel, Sally, 
Neptune, Jennet, Abegail, Isaac (Jim) and Jonas (the last 
mentioned seven are the children of Carpenter Isaac and 
his wife Sylvia). Flora and Samilla, colored girls, and the 
children of Rose, deceased, Euphemia and Wabby (the 
children of the above named Celia), Betty and her two 
children. Jack and Julia, Quash (Driver), his wife Harriet 
and their children, Frederick, Cyrus, Quash and Aflfey. 
Rosina, a colored French woman and mulatto, Sally, 
house servant and seamstress, being thirty in number, to- 
gether with the future increase of the females, and I here- 
by confirm the claim of my beloved wife to the woman 
Venus and her children Hobbs, Charlotte, March, Fanny 
and Selina, they being property given her by my father in 
his life time, she has at all times the right to do with as 
she pleases. The negroes contained in both gifts are in 
number thirty-five (35). 

Item . The property hereby bequeathed by me 

to my beloved wife is for her own benefit during her nat- 
ural life, during which time she may lease, rent or hire the 
whole, or any part of it from year to year as she may 
deem to her advantage, but no part of either lands, tene- 
ments or negroes derived from me are to be sold during 



84 

her lifetime, unless it be for debts of her own contracting, 
and in such case her chattels only may be made liable, but 
lands are in no wise to be subject to the payment of her 
debts, as they are specially and only given for her benefit 
during her lifetime, and immediately after her demise, the 
lands so loaned reverts to my estate, and becomes a part 
of it to be disposed of by my executors or representatives 
as shall be hereafter directed. 

Item . My beloved wife is authorized by this 

instrument to dispose of her chattels bequeathed to her by 
me by her will or deed to any of her children or grand- 
children at her option and discretion to take effect after 
her death, but in the event of her not making anv formal 
disposition of her goods and chattels during her lifetime, 
then and in that case, all such property, as well as lands, 
reverts to my estate and becomes a part of it. 

Item . Nothing given by my father in his lifetime 

to my wife or her children is mentioned here other than 
to identify the property so given in order to prevent any 
misunderstanding among my heirs, executors or repre- 
sentatives, who may not be intimately acquainted with 
facts: Therefore, be it known to all whom it may con- 
cern, that my father, Charles Floyd, in his lifetime gave 
as a memento of his afifection for his daughter-in-law and 
his grandchildren the following negro slaves, to-wit : To 
my wife. Isabella Maria Floyd, he gave a girl named Ve- 
nus, the daughter of Elvira. To Mary Hazzard Floyd 
(now the wife of Everard Hamilton), he gave another girl, 
named Venus (the daughter of Rose). To my son Charles 
Renaldo Floyd, he gave a boy named Wabby. To my 
daughter, Sarah Catherine Wigg Floyd, now Mrs. de 
laRoche, he gave a girl named Jenny. To my son, John 
Fender Floyd, he gave a boy named Pompey. To mv 
daughter, Susan Dixon Lodorska Floyd (now Mrs. Ben- 
jamin Hopkins), he gave a colored girl called Eliza, which 
said girl several years after his, Benjamin Hopkins, inter- 



85 

marriage with my daughter, sold me for a valuable con- 
sideration in money, as the Records of the Superior 
Courts of Mcintosh County will show, and is now no part 
of my estate nor subject to my heirs or representatives in 
any manner whatever. To my daughter, Caroline 
Eliza Louisa Floyd (now Mrs. James Blackshear), he 
gave a colored girl named Edith. To my son, Richard 
Ferdinand Floyd, he gave a boy named Jim. To my daugh- 
ter Melinda Isabella Floyd, (late Mrs. William Hopkins), 
he gave a colored girl named Lucretia. To Samuel Au- 
gustus Floyd he gave a boy named Dandy, and to Henry 
Hamilton Floyd he gave a boy named Hector. 

Item . All the property given by me to my chil- 
dren after their arrival at mature age or previous to my 
demise, whether in money or in other property of equal 
value, is to be considered and estimated as so much of 
their proportion of the whole of my disposable estate, 
which may be ascertained by the appraisement of what 
may remain at my death, which added to that which has 
been given will show the aggregate amount of the whole, 
and it may not be improper here to state for the informa- 
tion of my executors or representatives what each of my 
children have received since their arrival at mature age ; 
nothing advanced to them during their minority are em- 
braced in these calculations. 

Item . Know then that on the marriage of my 

daughter Mary to Colonel Edward Hamilton, I gave her 
in money Fifteen Hundred Dollars ($1,500.00) and five 
negroes worth Fifteen Hundred Dollars more, equal to 
Three Thousand Dollars, and on January, 1831, gave her 
eight negroes more, supposed to be worth Two Thou- 
sand Four Hundred ($2,400) Dollars, making the whole of 
what she has received Five Thousand Four Hundred Dol- 
lars ($5,400). 

Item . To my son, Charles Renaldo Floyd, I 

have advanced to him in money since his arrival at mature 



86 

age, as my memorandum will show. Two Thousand Eight 
Hundred Dollars, and have given him thirteen negroes up 
to January, 1831, considered worth Three Thousand Dol- 
lars, and Fairfield place, estimated at One Thousand Dol- 
lars, the whole equal to Six Thousand Eight Hundred 
Dollars ($6,800). 

Item . To my daughter, Sarah, on her marriage 

with Dr. De La Roche. I gave in money One Thousand 
Three Hundred Dollars and four negroes, considered 
worth One Thousand Four Hundred Dollars, and in Jan- 
uary. 1 83 1. I gave in addition to the above eight negroes 
' more, supposed to be worth Two Thousand Four Hun- 
dred Dollars, which in the aggregate is equal to $5,100. 

Item . To my son, John Fender Floyd, I have 

advanced on his account since he has been of age One 
Thousand Nine Hundred and Seventy Dollars, and at the 
distribution of part of my property among my children in 
January, 1831, I reserved and set apart for the use and 
benefit of his widow, my beloved daughter-in-law, Ann 
Hunt Alston Floyd, the following negroes, to-wit : 
Charles, Podydore. Jenny, her children, Bett and lone, 
Cazar, Mary, old Isaac, Dinah, her children, Jacob, Esau, 
Boston. Samnson and Chloe, being thirteen in number 
and supposed to be worth Three Thousand Dollars, which 
in addition to Nineteen Hundred and Seventy before 
stated, gives on the aggregate the amount of Four Thou- 
sand Nine Hundred and Seventy Dollars ($4,970). 

Item . The above named fourteen negroes I 

give and bequeath to my beloved daughter-in-law, Ann 
Hunt Alston Floyd, for her own use and behoof forever 
unencumbered by any claim upon them by or from any 
person or persons whatever, and are given free of all claim 
or expectation from my estate in any future division of 
property which may take place. 

Item . That after the marriage of my daughter 

Susan to Mr. Tienjatnin Hopkins. I gave her in cash One 



87 

Thousand Dollars and three negroes, worth Eight Hun- 
dred Dollars, and at the distribution of a part of my prop- 
erty among my children in January, 1831, I authorized my 
son-in-law, Mr. Benjamin Hopkins, to secure to himself 
on my account to the amount of Three Thousand Dollars 
worth of negroes formerly belonging to the estate of his 
father, for which I now hold a firm title, as the Records 
in Mcintosh County show, by my purchase of lands and 
negroes from George Atkinson, who had purchased them 
under the execution of a judgment of the Bank of Darien 
against the estate of Hopkins, which makes in the aggre- 
gate Four Thousand Eight Hundred Dollars ($4,800). 

Item . To my daughter, Caroline, after the mar- 
riage with Mr. James H. Blackshear, I gave her at the dis- 
tribution of a part of my property in January', 1831, thir- 
teen negro slaves, which with other trifling advances are 
in the aggregate equal to Four Thousarid Five Hundred 
Dollars ($4,500). 

Item . To my son, Richard, since he has arrived 

at mature age I have advanced on his account from time 
to time Five Hundred Dollars, and at the distribution of a 
part of my property in January, 1831, I gave him twelve 
negroes, worth Three Thousand Five Hundred Dollars, 
which in addition to Five Hundred Dollars, is $4,000. 

Item . In due time after my demise, and this my 

Will shall be proven and recorded, my executors or rep- 
resentatives are hereby required to proceed on legal form 
to have the whole of my estate not previously appropriated 
valued by appraisement, and when its value shall be there- 
by ascertained, to add the amount of that which had been 
previously given according to the preceding estimates, ex- 
cept the portion herein bequeathed to my beloved wife, 
which will have no connection with this arragement unless 
events shall subject it to the conditions previously speci- 
fied (of her dying intestate before such appraisement takes 
place). The total amount of my property having been thus 



88 

ascertained, divide it by the present number of my surviv- 
ing children, deducting from each the amount which each 
has received and the inequaHties of previous distributions 
will appear for correction. My children are all equally 
dear to me, and my desire and intention is to make the 
fruits of my wordly toils equitable in the distribution 
among them. Should any of my children who have a 
right to claim under this Will die before the final division 
of my property, the lawful issue, if any, such will hereby 
be entitled to the parent's portion to be received. 

Item . My two minor sons, Samuel Augustus 

Floyd and Henry Hamilton Floyd, are to receive their 
maintenance and education out of my estate until they ar- 
rive at mature age without any deduction or charge from 
their full portion of my estate. Should each or either of 
them die under age, his or their portion to which he or 
they would have been entitled, will be divided among my 
surviving children. 

Item . My lands are not to be divided until my 

youngest son, Henry, arrives at mature age, and the whole 
of them and the whole of them not previously disposed of, 
including those in Mcintosh County (hereafter described), 
are required to be resurveyed designating their qualities 
by which their proportions and probable values may be as- 
certained when my executors or representatives will pro- 
ceed to divide the lands into as many lots (having regard 
to soil and location) as I may at the time have surviving 
children, or the lawful issue of such as may die after the 
record of this Will and before a division of these lands can 
take place, in which case no such issue to claim more than 
what would have been its or their parent's part under this 
Will. The mode of distribution to be conducted agreeably 
to the following directions, viz. : The number of lots to be 
equal to the number of heirs regularly numbered and put 
into a hat and the names of the heirs (corresponding with 
the number of lots), written on separate pieces of paper 



89 

and put into another hat. Two disinterested persons will 
proceed to draw from one hat containing the names and 
the other from the hat containing the number of lots and 
the number of the lot following the name shall establish 
the right of claim to the same, and the same order to be 
pursued until the drawing shall be finished. 

Item . My lands in Mcintosh consists of two 

tracts, one of seven hundred acres, known by the name of 
the Howard tract, and one other tract adjoining thereto, 
containing three hundred acres, as the plats, titles on 
record in Mcintosh County and my tax returns will show, 
these lands together with one hundred and twenty-two 
negroes, was purchased by me from George Atkinson, 
Esquire, of Darien, as the Title Deed and Records of Mc- 
intosh County will show. A part of the negroes I have 
conveyed to certain individuals for valuable consideraions 
to relieve the estate of Gen. Francis Hopkins, deceased, 
from embarrassments, for which I had assumed the re- 
sponsibilitv. And as before stated, I authorized my son- 
in-law, Mr. Benjamin Hopkins, to appropriate Three 
Thousand Dollars worth of said negroes (to which I hold 
a firm title) for the sole use of himself and his family as an 
equivalent to the portions given to my other children on 
the distribution of property to them in January, 183 1. The 
balance of these negroes are in the hands of the heirs of 
Gen. Francis Hopkins, deceased, who have been permitted 
to retain them, under their promise to work out the debt 
due by that estate to the Bank of Darien, and also to pay 
me for advances which I have made from my individual 
fund to pay the debts of that estate. 

jtem . From an examination of my books of 

account with that estate on the 7th day of April, in the 
year 1831, by Levi S. DeLyon, Esquire, the Legal Attor- 
ney for the said estate, and Maj. William Hopkins, one of 
the heirs, it appears that the estate of Hopkins aforesaid 
owed me a balance of Two Thousand Five Hundred and 



90 

Eighty Dollars ($2,580), entitled to lawful interest from 
the above mentioned date. This sum divided between the 
ten heirs of that estate shows that each of them are in- 
debted to me Two Hundred and Fifty-eight Dollars 
($258), as Levi S. DeLyon's certificate will prove. 

Item . In the event of my lands in Mcintosh 

County (as before described) not being sold in my lifetime, 
my executors or representatives are hereby authorized by 
the consent of a majority of my heirs to either sell them 
or parcel them out as before directed, as they in their 
judgment may deem most conducive to the interest of said 
heirs. But my lands in Camden County are not to be sold 
until a division of them takes place, which will be when 
my youngest surviving son becomes of age. 

Item . When the whole value of my estate shall 

have been ascertained by appraisement as directed, and to 
that which has been given as shown by the preceding 
statement, statement and divide the grand total between 
the number of my present surviving children (i. e.), eight 
at the time which will give the amount to which each is 
entitled to of the whole, from which deduct the amount 
that has been received from each dividend, and it will be 
seen what may be due each on a final division which may 
be in the early part of the month of the first of January 
after my death, or as soon thereafter as circumstances will 
permit. 

Item . Samuel and Henry Floyd are each to re- 
ceive their full portion of my whole estate without any de- 
duction. If a division of my property after my death takes 
place before my two youngest sons are of the age of 
twenty-one years, my executors or representatives are au- 
thorized to proceed to a division of my property according 
to its appraised valuation. The lots of negroes set apart 
for Samuel and Henry Floyd are to be of equal value with 
other lots that has or may be distributed, taking care that 
each of them have a just proportion of working valuable 



91 

hands with other heirs. If, however, these lots are deter- 
mined for them, I mean Samuel and Henry, before their 
arrival at mature age, their property is to remain under 
the superintendence of my executors or representatives 
as a part of my estate, and the proceeds of the labor of 
these slaves are to be applied to the disbursement of the 
expenses of the estate, until their age entitles them to the 
control of it. The choice of the lots of negroes set' apart 
for these two young members of my family to be decided 
by lot between them. 

Item . My warlike and sporting weapons of 

every kind are to be distributed among my sons in just 
proportion to their value, or be sold for their benefit if 
they prefer. 

Item . To my driver, Anselj for his faithful ser- 
vices and fidelity during the late war, I give from the pro- 
ceeds of my estate an extra suit of cheap broadcloth, a 
a hat and a pair of shoes and Ten Dollars per annum (and 
his provisions so long as he lives). 

Item — ^ . The five-sixths (5-6) of my stock of every 

kind I give and bequeath to be equally divided among my 
children now residing in Camden County. 

Item . All receipts, either of money or value of 

any descriptioin which may be due to my estate and re- 
ceived, recovered or coming into the hands of my execu- 
tors or administrators having no connection with the pre- 
vious distribution of property mentioned in any of the 
items directing the manner of such distribution — I mean 
any money that may be due to my estate and not recov- 
ered until after my demise — shall be applied to the pay- 
ment of my debts ; if none at that time to be equally di- 
vided between my wife and children, and should it so hap- 
pen that such avails are inadequate to the payment of 
such debt, then and in such case the property subject to a 
division after my death must be kept together until all 
such debts are paid before such division as heretofore di- 



92 



rected can take, except the portion to Samuel and Henry 
i^loyd, who will pay their proportion of such debts. 

tn^I'.TH 7' ^^""'"^ "''■ ^"'^"^"^ '''^^' Isabella, choose 
to ^v,thdraw her property from the management or super- 
intendence of my executors or representatives, she is here- 

th7".,^'''T i° u° '° "' "">' ^'"^^ ^' her discretion. On 
he other hand, should she desire to entrust her interests 
to the,r care and management, it is my particular request 
that It may be diligently and particularly attended to, and 
the proceeds of the labor of her negroes to which she may 
be en 1 led to receive to be paid to her without unneces- 
sary delay That all reasonable means will be used to con- 
tribute to her comfort, and that in all cases and under all 
circumstances, I solicit and trust that due respect will be 
paid to her feelings, and a kind attention shown to her 
wants by which the concomitant infirmities incident to a-e 
may be softened and the evening of her rendered as tran- 
quil as the fates will permit. These considerations have 
governed me in the selection and appointment of execu- 
tors to this my last Will, to whose care, management and 
protection I commit the sacred trust of worldly endear- 
ments, consoled as I am with the belief that mv confidence 
warrants the reasonable expectation of the fulfillment of 
the duties due to friendship, strengthened by the ties of 
consanguinity. 

,. ■^*^"' ~T7~' ^^""^"^ contrary to my wishes or inten- 
tions any difference of opinion arise from the inadvertency 
or ambiguity of expression or from the absence of legal or 
technical terms, none of which having been studied or 
deemed necessary for the plain and unvarnished ex- 
pression of my Will, in any such case it is my request that 
such misunderstanding or difference of opinion as to the 
construction or wording of this instrument of writing 
shall be settled by impartial and disinterested men whose 
probity and intelligence can be relied upon, each of the 
disagreeing parties choosing one, and the two so chosen to 



93 

call in an umpire, if necessary, whose award shall deter- 
mine the testator's intention and meaning, and their de- 
cision shall be to all intents and purposes, as binding as 
any other form could make it. 

Item . And lastly, I hereby constitute and ap- 
point my beloved wife, Isabella Maria Floyd, my executrix 
and my son, Charles Renaldo Floyd, my son-in-law, Ev- 
erard Hamilton, and my son, Richard Ferdinand Floyd, 
my true and lawful executrix and executors to this, my 
last Will and Testament. 

In witness of all and each of the matters and things con- 

• tained in this instrument of writing denominated a Will, 

I have set my hand and seal, this i6th day of October, and 

of the Independence of the United States of America, the 

fifty-seventh year. 

N. B. — Interlineations made before signing: Page ist, 
line 19, after the word to read, be ; page 4, line 3, after the 
vv'ord his, read Benjamin Hopkins ; page 4, line 10, after the 
word be, read gave: page 7, bottom line, after the word 
which, read has ; page 10, line 8, after the word my, read 
Death. 

Signed and sealed in the presence of : 
Charles Magill. 
Thos. H. IVniler, 

Arch. Clark, J. I. C. C. C. 

John Floyd (L. S.) 

Georgia, Camden County: 

Appeared Archibald Clark, who being duly sworn, de- 
poseth and saith, that he was present and did see the testa- 
tor, John Floyd, sign, seal and as his act deliver the fore- 
going instrument of writing as and for his last Will and 
Testament, and for the purposes therein expressed, and 
that Charles Magill and Thos. H. Miller, with the deponent 
in the presence of the testator, and in the presence of each 



94 

other, subscribed their names as witnesses to the same, 
and the said John Floyd was of sound mind and memory. 

Sworn in open Court this 5th August, 1839. 
N. P. Burton, J. I. C. C. C. 
N. J. Patterson, J. I. C. C. C. 
J. T. Goodbread, J. I. C. C. C. 

Arch. Clark. 

Recorded and examined this 8th day of August, 1839, 
and I do hereby certify that Charles R. Floyd and Richard 
T. Floyd were duly qualified as Executors of the above 
and foregoing Will of Gen. John Floyd. 
By Robert Brown, Clerk. 

Ghorgia, Camden County: 

Clerk's Of^ce, Court of Ordinary. 

I certify that th's Will of Gen. John Floyd is a true copy 
of his Will from the book containing the records of Wills. 
In witness' whereof, I subscribe my name and seal of ofiEice, 
this 2nd April, 1840. 

T. Pcrcival Cohen, Clerk. 




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